To say that this summer’s Interns for Justice Program is embracing different challenges than past years is an understatement. As our world is in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic and protests continue across our nation demanding an end to police violence against Black people in the United States, our eight Interns for Justice (IFJ) are engaging with communities at a time when the call to action is urgent, and our core values of social justice, community, solidarity, and reflection are especially grounding and needed.
Over the next 8-10 weeks, IFJs will serve with organizations working alongside and advocating with marginalized communities. Through these experiences, they will deepen their understanding of social justice issues and critically examine root causes. Through building relationships with colleagues and the communities and individuals they serve, they’ll develop capacity as allies in solidarity with others.
This summer’s cohort of interns is engaging in a variety of internship placements. Because of the COVID-19 crisis, several internships have adapted to a virtual format, allowing IFJs to engage in their host organization’s work while working safely from home. Others are taking precautions while proceeding with doing work on the front lines, providing vital services to communities in need.
Interns & Placements:
Meg Bender-Stephanski – Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon (Portland, OR)
Alannah Clay- Because People Matter (Portland, OR)
Carolina Cortes- Center for Gender, Migration, and Justice (Portland, OR / Stuttgart, Germany)
Siena Henson- El Centro de la Raza (Seattle, WA)
Rosie Ith- Gender and Development for Cambodia (Phnom Penh, Cambodia)
Maggie Loft- Girls Inc. (Portland, OR)
Sophia Riccardi- Because People Matter (Portland, OR)
Katie Wojda- Joint Religious Legislative Coalition (Minneapolis, MN)
Throughout the summer, each intern will share reflections about their internship experience on this blog. We encourage you to come back often and follow along!