BYU Professor Speaks of Uncomfortable Truths About Racism in America and How Latter-day Saints can Help

"As representatives of Christ, we can work hard to heal the painful legacies of racism that we inherited, legacies that manifest in new and pernicious ways. Taking this action will help us alleviate the suffering of others. This is what the Savior did for each and every one of us."

On April 6, Ryan Gabriel, a BYU Assistant Professor of Sociology gave a devotional entitled "Healing Racism Through Jesus Christ," in which he outlined how to navigate the world we live and overcome racism through the Gospel. One thing that can be immediately is noted is this: "Without question, it is a sin to believe that the color of one’s skin or cultural heritage makes one inherently better than another."

One thing that Brother Gabriel pointed out, and wanted to point out is that in order to beat racism, we must acknowledge that there is racism and how it came about, and how to deal with it in the society that we live in. 

In his recent devotional, Dallin H. Oaks, first counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, used this definition of racism: “involving the idea that one’s own race is superior [to others] and has the right to rule [over them].” In other words, racism is an idea that a racial hierarchy exists in which certain groups are superior to others. In the context of the United States, the racial hierarchy places Whites at the top and African Americans and other people of color at the bottom.

What makes this talk so interesting and a must-read/watch is the amount of uncomfortable information that Brother Gabriel gives to members. This isn't a talk that tries to go around the bush. He brings out points, facts, events, and statistics on racism in America that will make any decent person put their head down. 

So what can we do? What can be done?

"To counter racism and the pride and greed that are associated with it, the King of Kings invites each of us in love and magnanimity to “come unto me all ye ends of the earth, buy milk and honey, without money and without price.” The Savior invites all of us to share in His abundant gifts of love and redemption, in which racial and economic status are inconsequential, in which each of us can partake of His nourishing word, and in which we are inherently equal."

If you want to read the whole talk please check it out here. 

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments!