Activism, War, and Keeping the Faith: Fairleigh Dickinson University Press Mormon

The relationship between activism, war, and religion is a complex one. On the one hand, religious beliefs can provide a powerful motivation for activism, inspiring people to fight for social justice, peace, and other important causes. On the other hand, war and other forms of violence can challenge religious beliefs and lead to moral dilemmas for activists.

Chicano While Mormon: Activism, War, and Keeping the Faith (Fairleigh Dickinson University Press Mormon Studies Series)

by Ignacio M. García

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2625 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	261 pages
Paperback	:	76 pages
Item Weight	:	2.89 ounces
Dimensions	:	5 x 0.18 x 8 inches

FREE

The Mormon faith, with its emphasis on peace, love, and service, has been a particularly fertile ground for activism. Mormon activists have been involved in a wide range of social and political movements, from the abolition of slavery to the civil rights movement to the fight against nuclear weapons.

However, Mormon activists have also faced challenges and criticism, both from within and outside the faith. Some critics have accused Mormon activists of being too pacifist or of compromising their religious beliefs in the name of social justice. Others have argued that Mormon activism is too focused on the United States and does not do enough to address global issues.

Despite these challenges, Mormon activists have continued to play an important role in social and political movements. They have helped to raise awareness of important issues, pushed for change, and provided a voice for the voiceless. Their work is a testament to the power of faith to inspire action and to the importance of keeping the faith even in the face of adversity.

The Mormon Peace Tradition

The Mormon peace tradition has its roots in the early days of the Latter-day Saint movement. Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon faith, was a pacifist who believed that war was always wrong. He taught that his followers should "live in peace with all men" and that they should "turn the other cheek" when faced with violence.

Smith's teachings on peace have been influential in shaping the Mormon faith. Mormons believe that war is a sin and that it should only be used as a last resort. They also believe that peace is essential for the establishment of Zion, the ideal society that they hope to create.

The Mormon peace tradition has not always been easy to maintain. Mormons have been persecuted for their beliefs and have sometimes been forced to fight in wars. However, they have never abandoned their commitment to peace. They have continued to work for peace through activism, education, and other means.

Mormon Activists in the Abolitionist Movement

One of the most significant examples of Mormon activism is the involvement of Mormons in the abolitionist movement. In the early 1800s, slavery was widespread in the United States. Mormons were among the few religious groups who spoke out against slavery. They believed that slavery was a sin and that it violated the principles of freedom and equality.

Mormon abolitionists played a key role in the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses that helped slaves escape to freedom. They also spoke out against slavery in their sermons, writings, and other public forums.

The involvement of Mormons in the abolitionist movement was controversial. Some Mormons were criticized for speaking out against slavery, which they were violating state laws. However, Mormon abolitionists persevered, and their work helped to create a climate change that eventually led to the end of slavery in the United States.

Mormon Activists in the Civil Rights Movement

Mormons were also active in the civil rights movement. They worked to end segregation and discrimination and the right of all Americans to vote. Mormon activists were involved in a number of key civil rights organizations, including the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC).

Mormon activists played a particularly important role in the civil rights movement in Utah. They were involved in the protests and sit-ins that helped to desegregate public accommodations and other facilities in the state. They also worked to increase voter registration among African Americans and other minority groups.

The involvement of Mormons in the civil rights movement was not without controversy. Some Mormons were criticized for working with African Americans, who they were considered to be inferior. However, Mormon activists persevered, and their work helped to create a more just and equitable society.

Mormon Activists in the Fight Against Nuclear Weapons

Mormons have also been active in the fight against nuclear weapons. They believe that nuclear weapons are a threat to humanity and that they should be abolished. Mormon activists have worked to raise awareness of the dangers of nuclear weapons, and they have lobbied for nuclear disarmament treaties.

Mormon activists have played a key role in the Nuclear Freeze Movement. They have also been involved in the effort to abolish nuclear testing and to ban the production of new nuclear weapons.

Chicano While Mormon: Activism, War, and Keeping the Faith (Fairleigh Dickinson University Press Mormon Studies Series)

by Ignacio M. García

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2625 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	261 pages
Paperback	:	76 pages
Item Weight	:	2.89 ounces
Dimensions	:	5 x 0.18 x 8 inches

FREE