by Annika London

During my semester in Washington D.C. last fall, I witnessed the fear and anger that different minority faith communities around me felt after the elections. I knew at that point that once I returned to Butler’s campus, I wanted to find a way to appreciate and strengthen religious pluralism both on campus and in the broader Indianapolis community.

I have greatly enjoyed working as the Communications Intern for the Center for Faith and Vocation. While helping to organize and promote the many fantastic events hosted by the Center, I have been able to see the extent of the diversity at Butler University and in Indianapolis. Events like “Big Questions” and “Talk, Taste, and Listen” have opened my mind to the varied experiences of my peers. I was honored to be able to stand next to the exceptional individuals who participated in the Muslim Student Association’s “Unity Walk.” The “Affirming Our Love” choral concert and the Interfaith Council’s Canvas Painting Night opened my mind to the possibilities of interfaith cooperation and peace through art. And I appreciate every opportunity I have had to directly interact and work with people from many different religions, philosophies, and perspectives who value diversity and pluralism as much as I do.

Interning at the Center for Faith and Vocation was an excellent way to bring my time at Butler University to an end. Looking forward into a future full of open doors, this internship has confirmed my passion for cultivating an appreciation for diversity. Beyond that, I am excited to carry the skills I have built, the experiences I have gained, and the perspectives I have absorbed into whatever future journey I choose to pursue.