Being Black Latter-day Saints

On this episode of Roots, Race & Culture, meet LaShawn Williams, LCSW, and filmmaker Mauli Bonner, two Black members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Hosts Danor Gerald and Lonzo Liggins learn how the religion shapes their lives, their favorite memories, and their interpretation of historical doctrine in the Church.

Filmmaker Mauli Bonner creates films about Black history in the Church of Jesus Christ, including his production “His Name is Green Flake,” which tells the story of a 19-year-old Black pioneer who led one of the largest pioneer migrations in America. Hear why representing Black people in religious history and art is iso important to him.

LaShawn Williams, licensed clinical social work with 20 years of experience in higher education, gives poignant advice and support to any young Black member of the of Church. Williams discusses how she interprets scriptural doctrine, and the impact it has had on her experience in the faith.

Not familiar with the history of the LDS Church? Here’s a quick overview:

Originally, when the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was founded by Joseph Smith in 1830, Black members had equal standing to their white counterparts. However, after the death of Joseph Smith, that all changed as Brigham Young took leadership of the Church and helped establish Utah as a slave territory and placed major restrictions on Black church members. It wasn't until 1978 that the Church allowed Black members to once again have full participation within the faith.

How does this history shape today’s members? Tune in to find out!