The Three Deadly “Isms” Part I: Racism

Many have heard of the “Seven Deadly Sins” often talked about in Catholic teachings. While Mormons don't have their own set of “deadly sins,” I would like to suggest three different attitudes which are extremely detrimental to modern society, as well as completely in opposition to the doctrines of Mormonism.

Incidentally, these three sins can all be defined with words that end in the suffix “ism.” They are: Racism, Nationalism, and Extremism. Over the next few weeks, I'd like to look at these deadly isms one at a time, and show how these attitudes take one further away from the blessings of the Gospel.

Today I will talk about racism. While the definition of “race” may vary, it general refers to one's skin color, or a group of people from similar nations. In the United States we often categorize people into certain racial groups. White, Black, Asian, Latino, American Indian, and others are the most common categories we use in the USA.

There is no excuse for racism in the world today. Most would agree without questioning such a statement. Still, I think it is important that we understand what racism actually is. Is it a strong dislike for those of another race? Is it discrimination in school or the work place? Is it using racial slurs when referring to another race? Or is it simply making racial jokes?

All of the above are forms of racism. However, the measuring stick I use for racism is this: When one, either consciously or unconsciously, considers one race (usually theirs) to be superior to another.

It's been said that “everyone's a little bit racist.” While there are some who feel no shame in making there racism known outwardly, there are others who keep their racist feelings within. Perhaps they only let them show in certain environments. It is true that one can be completely be respectful to members of another race, yet in their hearts still believe that their race is superior.

In 2006, President Gordon B. Hinckley, during a church-wide conference, made a very clear stance against racism. He said:

“...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...we must make an effort to accommodate that diversity.

Let us all recognize that each of us is a son or daughter of our Father in Heaven, who loves all of His children...there is no basis for racial hatred among...this Church. If any within the sound of my voice is inclined to indulge in this, then let him go before the Lord and ask for forgiveness and be no more involved in such.”

Pretty strong words if you ask me. For those who believe that Gordon B. Hinckley was a Prophet of God, in this case speaking on behalf of the entire church, there can be little doubt on how racism relates to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Yet nevertheless, I still see threads of racism still surfacing among church members from time to time.

Racism is an ugly thing, and as church members, we should do whatever we can to root any hints of it out of our hearts. Often, we have racist sentiments because of the environment in which we grew up. Sometimes, it simply comes from a lack of exposure to those of other racial groups. Whatever the case may be, it is important that we do whatever we can to eliminate this deadly ism from among us.