Racist Mormon history is not taught to members of color #lds #mormon #latterdaysaint #temple

Understanding Racism in Mormon History Matters More Than Ever

For many members of color within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, there's a heavy silence that accompanies the vibrant testimonies shared in chapels. This silence is not just about the lack of mention of historic events but an absence that reverberates with untold truths about racism within the Mormon Church's past. As these members find themselves part of a global community, the question resonates: Why wasn't I taught about the Church's racial history, including figures like Ezra Taft Benson who opposed civil rights movements, or problematic narratives from the Book of Mormon itself?

The Unspoken Past: Context and History

From the beginnings of the Church, narratives surrounding race have been fraught with tension. Critical historical claims include former LDS Church President Ezra Taft Benson’s opposition to the civil rights movement and his condemnation of Martin Luther King Jr. These were hardly footnotes in history but significant events, largely excised from Church discussions. Other records reveal doctrines from the Book of Mormon linking dark skin with curses, once directly tied to Polynesians and African-Americans. Despite these roots, many members, especially those of differing ethnic backgrounds, report that these issues were not addressed in Sunday School lessons or seminary.

History isn’t just written by victors; sometimes, it’s rewritten by omission. By sidelining these discussions, the church seemingly seeks to avoid discomfort. But is it truly healing if the wound is only papered over, never properly cleansed?

Unveiling the Core of Historical Amnesia