Memo to Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Over the last several years, I have been actively educating myself about societal issues. I consider this my civic duty, but especially my responsibility as a follower of Christ. It distresses me that so many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe that inequality between races is simply due to poor behavior and life choices. Too many approach conversations about racism with an idea that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color are “too sensitive,” “looking for something to complain about,” or “need to stop playing the victim.” Dismissing and rejecting the lived experiences of other people dehumanizes and harms everyone. Such responses are not Christlike, and I firmly believe that true disciples instead ask, “Lord, is it I?”

I’ve recently had several conversations with friends and family about racism. These are often uncomfortable and even painful. Taking accountability for ways we uphold white supremacy is difficult work. However, I would think that as Church members who regularly preach about the atonement of Jesus Christ, we of all people should be extremely comfortable acknowledging our mistakes and committing to do better. That is church culture I could actually support.

Above all, we absolutely cannot approach this work like the Zoramites from The Book of Mormon who prayed upon the Rameuptom for all to hear; then went through the week without a thought turned to heaven. Our goal should not be to somehow prove we are not racist, but to learn how to become actively anti-racist. We will make mistakes, so we must continually and sincerely repent, and seek to build Zion in earnest.