Concept Application-- Carly Ficke

            I have selected the concept of integration to apply to the Czech population here in Nebraska. This concept, though simple, is very profound when it comes to this culture. Integration is defined as "a type of cultural adaptation in which individuals maintain both their original culture and their daily interactions with other groups" (Martin, J. N., & Nakayama, T. K., 2010). Integration can be found not only in the early history of Czech-American culture, but also now in the later generations of Czech descent.

            Integration is vital when it comes to Czech identity in the modern world. The Czech traditions and cultural pride have found ways to survive, while its members have also integrated into the modern American ways of life. Czech culture especially has found a way to thrive and even attract non-Czech people in their traditions. I argue that Nebraska Czech's have been able to balance their integration by forming a strong cultural identity in their children, enacting frequently Czech traditions and customs, and also by publicizing their events and gatherings for people of all descent. In this way, they are allowing integration of non-Czech people, so they can more fully understand their heritage and cultural practices.

            So far, I have reached out to the former Czech Queen of Nebraska and have an interview scheduled. I have also reached out to a 22-year-old Czech male whose grandparents were immigrants and who also taught him the language. Additionally, I will be speaking with a Czech-American priest. The annual Czech festival is May 3rd of this year, so I hope to get in touch with the planning committee to learn what events and traditions will be evident in this year's celebration. Recently, I was also able to attend a Czech funeral of the grandparent of one of my friends. I will use all of this information to gather a thorough analysis on the Czech culture in Nebraska. I will ask questions regarding their childhood and how these cultural practices were implemented. I will ask if they still carry them on today. I will ask whether or not they take part in yearly customs or events and if they feel a strong sense of pride in their Czech heritage. I will also ask if they plan to pass on the traditions to their own families and what they feel the fate of their culture is as integrations continues on. Will the Czech culture remain strong? Will it die out or be less practiced? All of these questions will help me to gain sufficient data to form a proper analysis of the Czech culture here in Nebraska!