Ivy Nichols, Colorado State University – Colorado, $1,000
By Ivy Nichols
A glance into the values of religious “Nones” reveals the potential of this growing demographic to build a more inclusive, adaptable society. Whether the beliefs of Nones are described as being in support of “increased secularism, abortion rights, and LGBT rights” (Kiesel), being “strongly progressive,” or simply being against the sexist and racist rhetoric that is increasingly associated with the “religious right” (Grossman), it is clear that this worldview has one characteristic: the acceptance of people and ideas that are rejected by the status quo.
