After the success of the first Interfaith Dialogue, Hindu Yuva was approached by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion to lead the efforts in promoting the interfaith coexistence in the campus. In the system heavily influenced by the western notions of diversity based on limiting concept of tolerance, Hindu Yuva are paving a way for the Hindu value-based framework which manifests the ideas of “वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम्” and “mutual respect”. As a starter, Hindu Yuva lead the team of 5 religious groups to organize a “Campus Conversation” event focusing explicitly on the concept of “Mutual Respect”.
For sustenance of these efforts, Hindu Yuva is establishing a campus-wide “Interfaith Council” under the guidance of Office of Diversity. It will serve not only as a platform for the community to know and understand different faiths and their worldviews but also help in facilitating the free exchange of knowledge, ideas, and opinions. International Students Council at ISU recognized our team effort by presenting with the annual “Event of the Year” Award and was appreciated by Dr. Wintersteen, President of Iowa State University for our leadership in bringing various multi-cultural organizations together and our commitment to improving the campus climate for members of underrepresented groups.