We can get in our own way of belonging. I judge myself harshly that I don’t fit into any one category and get in my own way of belonging to any one thing. I judge others (even though I am trying to break this habit) before I enable myself to open up…

Distortions and internal conflicts and challenges that disrupt my sense of belonging. A fractured identity struggling to connect the pieces to the larger puzzle. Rejection, judgment, exclusion not only from others but especially myself. A sense of…

This photo sums up, most artistically, my thoughts over the course of our Interfaith Photovoice. Coming out of high school, I felt accomplished but as if I missed out on knowing my class as well as I could have. If future Franklin pointed out all the…

At GVSU, I struggle finding suitable spaces to practice my religious rituals. The random room captured in the photo symbolizes the challenges I encounter in accessing dedicated areas for prayer on campus. As a student navigating these constraints, I…

Many of you will recognize GVSU's Laker store and the kiosk to pay for campus parking. For me, this photo represents why I've struggled to really feel like I belong to any sort of broader GVSU community and why campus has always felt slightly hostile…

Since I realized I was trans, I knew that being rejected by my family was inevitable. It's been about a year since my father formally decided to disown me and ex-communicate me almost completely. His version of devout Christianity just didn't have…

When I am walking home from my sorority chapter meeting on Sunday night, I pass by all of the church services happening in this building. I hear the large groups of voices, singing and observing their religion. I always knew that the Jewish community…

This image captures the essence of a halal restaurant, where adherence to Islamic dietary laws ensures that the food served meets the requirements of Muslim consumers. The absence of halal meat options on campus remains a significant concern for me.…

This is the concrete walkway that connects the English buildings to the rest of campus. I make use of it almost every weekday as I shuffle between my English classes in Lake Huron Hall and my history classes in Mackinac. It's invaluable to me, but it…

In Islam, observing dietary laws, particularly the consumption of halal meat, is fundamental. "Halal" refers to food that is permissible or lawful according to Islamic law. Halal food, prepared in accordance with religious guidelines, carries immense…

I love Judaism and practicing its core values, even if my traditional spiritual practice is lacking. I love the community and services. Being at GVSU, I am mostly removed from that community nowadays, mostly by my own choice. Photovoice made me…

Participating in the Kaufman Interfaith Institute's Photovoice project provided me with an invaluable experience. It offered a safe and welcoming space for discussing a sensitive topic like religion openly. Sharing my beliefs without fear of judgment…