Are Mormons Racist?

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or Mormon Church, affirms that God loves all members of the human family. The Book of Mormon states that God “denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female … and all are alike unto God” (2 Nephi 26:33). This scripture in the Book of Mormon sets the standard for what Mormons believe about Blacks in Mormonism. All people, regardless of race, are invited to fully participate in the blessings offered by Jesus Christ and His Church. 

In recent addresses, leaders of the Mormon Church have reiterated God’s love for all his children. President Russell M. Nelson said this in an address in October 2020: “I assure you that your standing before God is not determined by the color of your skin. Favor or disfavor with God is dependent upon your devotion to God and His commandments and not the color of your skin.”

Another leader of the Church, Elder Quentin L. Cook, also stated that God’s expectation for his children is to love one another as He does. God expects his children to strive for unity, which should coexist with diversity. Members of the Mormon Church love everyone, Mormons and Blacks, and those of any religion or race.