Official Statement from Mormon Women for Ethical Government Condemning White Supremacy
The women of Mormon Women for Ethical Government join together today in a clear and loud expression of faith. White supremacy in all its manifestations is contrary to the will of God. His highest commandments are unequivocal: We are to first love the Lord our God and second love our neighbor as ourselves. This simple and brief direction, when accepted by those with integrity, does not allow for racism, oppression, hatred, violence, or any intimations of racial superiority. Supremacy and equality cannot coexist, either in the sight of God or the law.
We have grave concerns that the president’s failure to condemn white supremacy — and his legitimization of white supremacist groups — will result in real and lasting harm. We remind members of law enforcement that our government and its laws must be used to protect people of color from the personal violence that has always resulted from supremacist beliefs. White supremacy is a threat to both our national security and our nation’s soul, and we cannot pledge to build “one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all” without including every citizen.
The women of MWEG will continue to do what the president would not — speak out forcefully against white supremacy. We invite our fellow citizens to join us.
Note: On Tuesday, September 29, during a presidential debate, President Trump used very specific terminology encouraging the Proud Boys to be ready. In doing so, he implied that the commander in chief endorsed their militaristic activities. These words have put many Americans at risk of physical harm. On Thursday, October 1, two days after the debate and after repeated questions from the press, President Trump made a statement condemning white supremacy.
We appreciate this condemnation, but years of tweets, rally speeches, comments to the press, and debate performances remain online and have not been addressed. As women of faith, we know character is revealed in countless small words and acts, particularly those uttered on impulse. We hope this most recent statement by the president marks a permanent shift in his message.
