Dear Latter-day Saints:

We hope this letter finds you well. We write with heartfelt concern about the discourse surrounding the upcoming United States elections. As followers of Christ, we know that our words carry immense weight and power, reflecting our beliefs and values.

During this election season, rhetoric has often been hurtful. Words like “woke” and terms related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) have been used loosely and misappropriated in ways that cause unnecessary pain. This misuse, intended or not, can create a sense of exclusion among those who should feel the most welcome in our communities and congregations.

As Elder Ronald A. Rasband reminds us, “Words matter a lot. They are the bedrock of how we connect; they represent our beliefs, morals, and perspectives. Words set a tone. They voice our thoughts, feelings, and experiences, for good or bad.”

Elder Rasband also notes that “words can be thoughtless, hasty, and hurtful. Once said, we cannot take them back.” We must choose words that uplift, include, and heal.

We can remember that divisive language is not just a tool of politicians who seek to influence one to choose sides, but is also a tool of the enemy of this world who entices us to neglect or hold in disdain those with whom we have a covenantal relationship to honor in our families, wards and larger community of brothers and sisters.

Elder Rasband emphasized, “We ‘hear Him’ in the words of scripture, but do we let them just sit on the page, or do we recognize He is speaking to us? Do we change?” 

President Russel M. Nelson said Latter-day Saints can change the world one person and one interaction at a time. “How? By modeling how to manage honest differences of opinion with mutual respect and dignified dialogue.” He invited us to “interact with others in a higher, holier way.”

In this National Civility Month of August, let us be Zion-minded, using our words to heal and uphold the principles of faith and freedom, ensuring our fellowship is unmistakably recognized as a beloved community of covenantal belonging.

Thank you for your steadfastness in living the Gospel and using edifying communications that make all members feel included in the Gathering of Israel. 

Friends of the Black Lives Bless Organization
Latter-day Saint voices for People of Color