Several critics emailed to ask whether host Martin Tanner believes Brigham Young was racist.  In this broadcast, Martin Tanner answers and responds to a broader question by explaining why neither The LDS Church and Joseph Smith were ahead of their time in having Blacks, Native Americans and others treated like all other visitors and members, without segregation, calling them to positions of authority and giving them the Priesthood.  Brigham Young, after giving praise to Black Elders in the LDS Faith changed policy in 1859, disallowing Blacks to be ordained to the Priesthood.  This was likely done to quell many threats against the Church for treating minorities the same as other members.  Over all, Martin Tanner explains why the LDS Faith has an excellent history of welcoming and treating minorities well.  More than half of all Church members today do not speak English as their native language.

<p>Several critics emailed to ask whether host Martin Tanner believes Brigham Young was racist.&nbsp; In this broadcast, Martin Tanner answers and responds to a broader question by explaining why neither The LDS Church and Joseph Smith were ahead of their time in having Blacks, Native Americans and others treated like all other visitors and members, without segregation, calling them to positions of authority and giving them the Priesthood.&nbsp; Brigham Young, after giving praise to Black Elders in the LDS Faith changed policy in 1859, disallowing Blacks to be ordained to the Priesthood.&nbsp; This was likely done to quell many threats against the Church for treating minorities the same as other members.&nbsp; Over all, Martin Tanner explains why the LDS Faith has an excellent history of welcoming and treating minorities well.&nbsp; More than half of all Church members today do not speak English as their native language.</p>

Issues of faith and spirituality that matter to LDS, Mormons, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

Religion Today

Martin Tanner's Religion Today Show broadcast Sunday, September 19, 2021 on Race in the LDS Faith, Judaism, Christianity and Secular History

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