2020
What is the Church’s stance on racism?
March 2020

“What is the Church’s stance on racism?” New Era, Mar. 2020, 27.

To the Point

What is the Church’s stance on racism?

hands with different skin colors on top of each other in a circle

Photograph from Getty Images

We believe that God is the Father of all humankind and that “he denieth none that come unto him, [both] black and white … ; and all are alike unto God” (2 Nephi 26:33). Because all people are equal before God, we believe that no person can rightly claim to be superior to another because of their racial or ethnic background. In addition, we believe that it is sinful to look down upon, denigrate, or discriminate against others because of their race.

Modern prophets and apostles have condemned racism in the strongest possible terms. For instance:

  • President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–2008): “No man who makes disparaging remarks concerning those of another race can consider himself a true disciple of Christ. Nor can he consider himself to be in harmony with the teachings of the Church of Christ.”1

  • President M. Russell Ballard, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: “We need to embrace God’s children compassionately and eliminate any prejudice, including racism, sexism, and nationalism.”2

  • President Dallin H. Oaks, First Counselor in the First Presidency: “Racism is probably the most familiar source of prejudice today, and we are all called to repent of that.”3