Attacking the Messenger

By insulting Udall, readers may have felt that they could negate any of the issues or points that he made. This is a common “ad hominem” argument which diverts attention from the issue at hand.

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E8E8E8″ image=”null”]”I think your article to the magazine trying to tell the “LDS church” what to do about the negro is asinine, out of gear and certainly you must be out of your mind. Are you running out of problems to solve? Who made you so omnipotent that you feel you can solve a problem Abel could not solve nor apparently Adam nor Lincoln nor Eisenhower nor Truman, nor that violence-maker Martin Luther King? ” (Negative Letter 8, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E8E8E8″ image=”null”]”Throughout the history of the church it has followed a consistent pattern that all ill-informed, unworthy, disloyal and apostate members are quick to try to outline the affairs of the church and set it in order. The more a member of the church breaks the laws of God and disregards the statutes of the church the more he will tell others how to live them.” (Negative Letter 12, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E8E8E8″ image=”null”]”You absolute nut – why don’t you shout down Negro bias. The Carmichael and the Kings and the Muslim – Why don’t you hit where the enemy lies” (Negative Letter 14, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E8E8E8″ image=”null”]”You like to shoot off your mouth about the Church with your errors. You are an ignorant man lacking in knowledge and understanding of the Gods. You can get a bill passed in U.S. making polygamy legal again. Adults involved consenting is legal!” (Negative Letter 20, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E8E8E8″ image=”null”]”It is strange that a man with as much knowledge would use such little wisdom in expressing himself. We are living in a day when those in high political offices should be working for peace and goodwill among all people instead of stirring up unrest.” (Negative Letter 26, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E8E8E8″ image=”null”]”…Sir, you are a disgrace to all humanity.” (Negative Letter 38, archive.org)[/stextbox]

Appeal to majority

Some readers took comfort in the fact that they saw many of their fellow mormons react with the same revulsion that they did when reading Udall’s letter. Since Mormons excel at following the teachings of the Brethren at the head of the church, then it is no surprise that they would find themselves in the majority of members who heeded the call to “follow the Prophet” when it came to issues of race. It was Udall and any liberal progressive intellectual mormons who supported him who were in the minority and went against the teachings of the Church. An appeal to the majority or “argumentum ad populum” is another fallacious argument which diverts attention away from the issue at had.

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”EBEFFF” bgcolorto=”E6E9FF” image=”null”]”I thought it fitting that you know how many of the members of the LDS church and perhaps all, feel about such a ridiculous and stupid statement on your part” (Negative Letter 12, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”EBEFFF” bgcolorto=”E6E9FF” image=”null”]”Is it colossal ignorance or political viciousness? I recently shared the extremely disgusting experience of reading a feature article on the front page of Nevada’s largest newspaper entitled “Ends LDS Bias – Udall” I say “shared” because without exception, every member of the church of high and low position – with whom I have discussed your “demand” has looked upon it with utter disdain and incredulity. ” (Negative Letter 14, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”EBEFFF” bgcolorto=”E6E9FF” image=”null”]”I, as thousands of other people, have been extremely upset at a recent news article published under an associated press date line. My feelings are such that I feel a desire to communicate them to you. It is difficult for me to understand why an individual with your religious background, education, and political stature would make such an off-hand comment concerning the Mormon religion and their revealed doctrine concerning the Negros” (Negative Letter 24, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”EBEFFF” bgcolorto=”E6E9FF” image=”null”]”After reading that article in the Arizona Republic quoting you – your ideas as to the stand the Church Leaders should take toward the negroes has provoked me to the point I can’t refrain from writing to you. Every L.D.S. feels as I do and also many others that are not L.D.S. …What was your motive? Did you feel that it would raise your prestige; or make you appear broader-minded and to have risen above social customs as you intimated the Church leaders were bonded to?” (Negative Letter 26, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”EBEFFF” bgcolorto=”E6E9FF” image=”null”]” I wish to inform you that many people including myself think that you’re absolutely wrong in your ideas and behavior.” (Negative Letter 41, archive.org)[/stextbox]

“Jack Mormons” don’t count

By pointing out Udall’s status as a less than orthodox member, some readers were able to invalidate any of the points that Udall made. This is a special type of ad hominem argument known as “poisoning the well” in which the person making the argument is discredited as an individual, serving to negate the import of any arguments that are made. This fallacious rhetorical device also serves to distract from directly confronting the issues that Udall raised.

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FBFFE6″ bgcolorto=”FFFDC7″ image=”null”]”Why are you trying to get the Priesthood for other people when you value it so lightly” (Negative Letter 1, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FBFFE6″ bgcolorto=”FFFDC7″ image=”null”]”Prior to examining the substance of your position, I would like to examine you as an individual – to ascertain why you deem yourself a fit spokesman for the church. I certainly will not, nor cannot judge, Mr. Secretary, but I have been told by several sources, including high level Washington sources when I attended law school there, that you do not in any substantial measure adhere to the standards of the LDS church. Is that true? Do you possess a temple recommend, Mr. Secretary? Are you living a life worthy of obtaining one? Do you live the Word of Wisdom? Pay a full tithing? etc. If you answer the aforementioned questions in the negative, then it is obvious why you would brazenly demand that the church forsake the word of the Lord and fall in line with the other churches – the church simply has no place of real meaning in your life.” (Negative Letter 14, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FBFFE6″ bgcolorto=”FFFDC7″ image=”null”]”The statement in which you startled most of us Utahns with the demand on our church leaders that they should change their “pious” ways and allow the Negro the Priesthood. I don’t suppose you have ever held the Priesthood, or you wouldn’t have said what you did. This really surprises me coming from a member of the L.D.S. Church. I heard rumored that you were a member (on paper) . This explains a great deal.  …By the way, did you make the statement as a member of the L.D.S. Church or as an apostate? Just curious. I suggest that you do a little more reading of the standard works of the Church and less talking.” (Negative Letter 16, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FBFFE6″ bgcolorto=”FFFDC7″ image=”null”]”But perhaps you have never humble yourself enough to get a testimony and you cannot turn traitor to a God you have never known. Unless you cease your arrogance you will grow more bitter. The church may not disfellowship you or even pay any attention to your sniping.” (Negative Letter 19, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FBFFE6″ bgcolorto=”FFFDC7″ image=”null”]”It seems to me that you have one foot in the church, one foot in your governmental job and an extra foot in your mouth. How can you possibly accept Joseph Smith as a Prophet of God, the Book of Mormon and other canonized books as divinely inspired and then defy the living Prophet. The only answer I can find is that you do not believe in the restoration of the Gospel and therefore it is quite easy to defy the Prophet and recommend changes in doctrine. For if you believed in the restored church, you would be obeying the commandments and following the teachings of God’s chosen leaders in these last days. Your recommends for doctrinal changes within the church are then as valid as my doctrinal recommends would be to the Catholic leaders. I as you, am not qualified to demand changes.” (Negative Letter 22, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FBFFE6″ bgcolorto=”FFFDC7″ image=”null”]”If the priesthood is so important to you Mr. Udall, why are you not honoring it? Is your life so full of party politics (Great Society) that you have moved away from the belief structure of your parents? Is it now that you are so concerned with your job that you want to focus “national attention” on something that you think would be damaging to God fearing people?” (Negative Letter 24, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FBFFE6″ bgcolorto=”FFFDC7″ image=”null”]” As I understand it you are not a good Mormon any more. Please correct me if I am wrong but anyone that would make such a statement surely can’t have the belief and faith that he should have if he is a true member.” (Negative Letter 29, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FBFFE6″ bgcolorto=”FFFDC7″ image=”null”]”To quote you, There is a “sad irony” indeed, and that “sad irony” is that you have accrued so many benefits from your being a mormon without giving anything of yourself to the Church. …For example,When benefits for mormons are to be derived you are first in line, but you have effectively shielded yourself from any responsibility for demonstrating your faith by blatantly disclaiming doctrines held sacred by worthy mormons as merely “borrowed superstitions.” …Your parasitic relationship with the Church disqualifies you from being its spokesman. Regarding the Negro position, we look to a chosen prophet for revelation and not to a government offical who has given the Church little support for over a quarter of a century and then sanctimoniously declares “surely that day has come.”” (Negative Letter 33, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FBFFE6″ bgcolorto=”FFFDC7″ image=”null”]” …on the fact that you were a life time member and of the pioneer heritage of the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints. This I find hard to believe after a disgraceful comment such as this unless, sir, you are a member by means of being born under the covenent and not an active priesthood holder.” (Negative Letter 38, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FBFFE6″ bgcolorto=”FFFDC7″ image=”null”]”Would appreciate knowing what Priesthood you hold, what offices you have held in the Church. Would also like to know what Ward you reside in and in what State. It was my understanding that you were inactive for a number of years and it would be interesting to know when you again became active and in a position to speak for the Mormon Church.” (Negative Letter 45, archive.org)[/stextbox]

Political Motive

Since Udall was a Democrat, some readers felt that his motivation was to raise an issue which would embarrass George Romney, who was a Mormon Republican thought to have the best chance at winning the presidency in the upcoming election. Others thought that his letter was an attempt to mix politics and religion. In either event, an assumed ulterior political motive allowed these readers to discount Udall’s arguments.

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFAFA” bgcolorto=”FFF2F2″ image=”null”]”Do you want the Democrats here to lose? We don’t” (Negative Letter 1, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFAFA” bgcolorto=”FFF2F2″ image=”null”]”If you suppose that the Priesthood is a Political item that can be given or taken away by the whims of political pressure, then you yourself are not worthy to hold this responsibility before the throne of Heaven of men. ” (Negative Letter 4, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFAFA” bgcolorto=”FFF2F2″ image=”null”]”You have served witness to the entire world that the presence of social needs is the basis for latter-day revelation. If you had more faith, you might understand that the criteria for revelation are not man’s needs but rather God’s will. Our Church is not a democracy, nor has it ever pretended to be one; but rather it is a theocracy based on the authority given to the prophet Joseph Smith via a visitation from God himself. …I could respect your opinion if it were expressed within the context of a purely social institution. Educational, political, economic, social and other organizations can well be changed via your dissenting comments; but the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (just as in the trying days of its existence in Illinois and Missouri) is not to be an instrument in the hands of would-be reformers. The principles espoused by the Church are eternal in nature and God’s own final judgement will decide the propriety of His laws and ordinances. ” (Negative Letter 7, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFAFA” bgcolorto=”FFF2F2″ image=”null”]”The root of all present racial trouble is interference in the internal affairs of southern states by people not at all interested in the settlement of any problems arising between the Negro and white Americans. This interference comes from organizations and individuals in the north seeking to use the Negro. Among them are found communists, fuzzyheaded liberals, eggheads, pacifists, idealists, do-gooders, conniving politicians, self seekers and civil disobedience kits. They employ situations which inflame and agitate the white populace and use it as white propaganda. …The Civil Rights Bill is 90% communist and 10% civil rights.” (Negative Letter 13, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFAFA” bgcolorto=”FFF2F2″ image=”null”]”if you and the rest of the Great Society would encourage the Negro to work and live for the respect and equality they desire – as your pioneer forebears had to do – rather than incite and encourage them to riot and civil disobedience we would all see an accelerated arrival of a brotherhood of all men. Sincerely – but not respectfully, yours, P.S. If your ill advised pronouncement was an effort to deter Gov. Romney’s potential progress I can offer you nothing but pity. ” (Negative Letter 14, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFAFA” bgcolorto=”FFF2F2″ image=”null”]”I don’t know what you thought you had to gain by challenging the authorities and the prophets of the church but it must have been political. You may have gained a few votes in Harlem, but you lost a lot of them in Utah, when a man puts politics before his church he is asking for trouble.” (Negative Letter 15, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFAFA” bgcolorto=”FFF2F2″ image=”null”]”It is apparent that you are attempting to use the church as a political tool against Governor George Romney in the forth coming general Elections. Whatever you think of Governor Romney as a Presidential Candidate, is of course your priviledge, but in using your own interpretation of the teachings of the church to bias the mind of the public, you have gone to far!” (Negative Letter 17, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFAFA” bgcolorto=”FFF2F2″ image=”null”]”Your obvious attempt to include the church in your partisan liberal ideas irritates me to a high degree. …The political government is not the savior of the people. Many governments and forms of governments have set themselves up as the supreme authority. In time they all decay because of their own corruption. I suggest that you should confine your activities to the Department of Interior and quit trying to command the Lord or His Prophet for your own political reasons.” (Negative Letter 23, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFAFA” bgcolorto=”FFF2F2″ image=”null”]”…it is well known in both Church and political circles that your appointment as Secretary of the Interior came by virtue of your supposed identification with the mormon ethnic and certainly not from your marginal personal qualifications. In these tactics, however, you have been most opportunistic. …We can only hope that your strange and uncalled for proclamations will be recognized by thinking people as an extremely unethical attempt to embarrass Governor George Romney of michigan. may we suggest that you review his civil rights record; it far outshines your own.” (Negative Letter 33, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFAFA” bgcolorto=”FFF2F2″ image=”null”]”In my opinion a Mormon democrat (who adheres to the present day democrat platform) is one who places his shoes on the wrong feet and tries to walk in society that way, each foot stepping further apart until your doctrine is split up the middle, dissolving into a phantom. granted a politician must build a shield for self-defense from his “enemies”, but many build a sarcophagus and bury themselves and their families from the face of man and God.” (Negative Letter 34, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFAFA” bgcolorto=”FFF2F2″ image=”null”]”…regarding your newspaper statements in connection with the Mormon Church versus the negro . To my thinking it is about a low of a blow you could make regarding our Church (myself being an LDS) and the biggest motive I can think of in your making such statements as “now is the time to bring the negro into full fellowship” etc. etc. can only be based on desperate political expediency in bid for votes in the coming election. …I further feel that IF I were a Democrat your statements would be a disservice to the party. Should you feel your political needs require the negro support then I for one suggest – most strongly – leave the Mormon Church out of it. ” (Negative Letter 44, archive.org)[/stextbox]

Priesthood a burden to Blacks

Some readers took the unique approach of explaining to Udall just how much of a burden the Priesthood was and describing how Black men are better off without it. This demonstrates a clear lack of empathy and a paternalistic attitude on the part of these members, but served to assuage their privilege by projecting a “sour grapes” rationalization onto black members.

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F3FFF2″ bgcolorto=”E6F2E6″ image=”null”]”when you remember how you grandfather and then your father were saddled with the office of Bishop and other Mormon priestly offices all their adult lives I am surprized that you could humanely wish such burdens on others…this differentiation was all to the Negro’s advantage.” (Negative Letter 2, archive.org)[/stextbox]

The author of this letter goes on to list what he considers the advantages of not holding the Priesthood to be, including: more sleep without having to attend meetings, less guilt for Sabbath breaking, less priestly burden of helping and ministering to others, etc. Read the full letter to get the idea.

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F3FFF2″ bgcolorto=”E6F2E6″ image=”null”]”I have the Book of Mormon opened up to 2 Nephi 26 …31, “for the laborer in Zion shall Labor for Zion; for if they labor for money they shall perish.” As you know being ordained to the Priesthood does not mean the recieving a Purple Robe and a life of ease; you are still under the Commandment “Six Days Shall you labor and Do All your work”, would our black Brothern be interested in Obtaining the Priesthood if they knew that?????” (Negative Letter 18, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F3FFF2″ bgcolorto=”E6F2E6″ image=”null”]”As it is now, he [black man] is better off than you and I as he will go to Heaven without working for it. The Lord will not keep a person out of Heaven because he cannot hold the Priesthood if it is not time for him to hold this office.

On the other hand if a person is permitted to hold this office as you and I, we have to keep the Sabbath Day holy, pay an honest tithing, observe the Word of Wisdom, go to the Temple for ourself and those that have gone on before us, and do all the things that a priesthood holder has to do. If we don’t there is only one place for us to go and that is to Hell with Satin and his Angels, But the Negro only has to be Baptized, and keep the commandments of God but all the extra work connected with the Priesthood he does not need to do, because God does not require it of him. In other words he is a favored child of God and not one that is deprived of salvation. The Negro cannot be a Son of Perdition but you and I can; why, because we hold the Priesthood of God in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.” (Negative Letter 42, archive.org)[/stextbox]

Blacks accept the ban

Some members felt that if their black friends understood and accepted the ban, then there was no reason to agitate for a change. As such, Udall’s only motive could have been to cause problems for the church.

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F9F2FF” bgcolorto=”F1E6FF” image=”null”]”I have served with various Negro people in positions of responsibility within the Mormon Church that have accepted the revealed explanation of their present denial of the priesthood. They also are aware of the future eternal opportunities that will be made available to them. What are you doing with your future eternal opportunities?” (Negative Letter 24, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F9F2FF” bgcolorto=”F1E6FF” image=”null”]”If President McKay were to say, “The Lord has made it known, that all L.D.S. Negroes elegible for the Priesthood are to receive it,” how many of the vast negro race would that affect? A comparatively small handful would be included. Those few L.D.S. Negroes are not among those who are making an issue of it. They are happy in being members of Christ’s Church and are joyfully looking forward to that promised day when they will be given the Priesthood. They realize that they have so much more than those who are not members. No, it isn’t the L.D.S. Negroes who are making an issue of it. Communistic agitators and a few others who are stirring up trouble. ” (Negative Letter 26, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F9F2FF” bgcolorto=”F1E6FF” image=”null”]”Furthermore, the church does not “actively” seek Negro members, but do not deny membership to those who seek it. The Negroes in the church understand why they are not permitted to hold the Priesthood, and it is only those who know nothing about the church who seem to be raising the fuss. And what a shame it is that you are agitating them.” (Negative Letter 27, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F9F2FF” bgcolorto=”F1E6FF” image=”null”]”We have many well educated intelligent Negroes who live and work here, and I have discussed our church and the limitations placed upon the Negro in it. I have been pleasantly surprised at times to find that many of them agree with this limitation. Their belief is that God in his own time will remove this limitation and that as promised by biblical and modern-day prophecy, they, the Negroes, will have the same opportunities as all other men.” (Negative Letter 43, archive.org)[/stextbox]

Blacks undeserving of Priesthood

This lamentable argument unfortunately is also one which reinforces the doctrine which was used to justify the ban.

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFF0D9″ bgcolorto=”EDDED1″ image=”null”]”For your information, I can promise you that the Negros will never be given the rights of the Priesthood except they humble themselves before the Lord in righteousness and obedience. They cannot and will not gain this right or priviledge by or through riots, marches, or the pressure of faithless men such as yourself who do not know or understand the eternal nature and significance of this right and calling before the Lord. It would be no blessing to the Negros to have the Priesthood before they are ready and willing to assume the responsibilities and consequences connected with this office in the Kingdom of God. To give them the impression that they can gain entrance into this office and calling other than through repentance, humility and obedience tot he Lord is a disservice to them or any other race or person on earth.” (Negative Letter 4, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFF0D9″ bgcolorto=”EDDED1″ image=”null”]”Have you hired a negroe in your own home or enterprise? Do you think you have enough common sense to save a few dollars and withdraw one of these poor, ill-favored people from their morass of corruption and spiritual weakness?” (Negative Letter 8, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFF0D9″ bgcolorto=”EDDED1″ image=”null”]”The fact that God has seen fit to create a disability, i.e., the witholding of the Priesthood, from certain of his children who were disobedient in the pre-existent life, is a condition we cannot alter. The fact that we discipline or deprive certain members of our own family because of disobedient acts doesn’t mean that we love them any less. – Of course I know – your position conforms with the “popular” notion that God merely – and capriciously mixed up a “batch” of children, some of whom were white, others black and some yellow in order to provide interest and variety. I pity those who consider such a concept deserving of belief.” (Negative Letter 14, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFF0D9″ bgcolorto=”EDDED1″ image=”null”]”You also called the doctrine of the preexistence a borrowed superstition and the church authorities have strayed and compromised. If you have a better explanation as to why the Negroes are born so handicapped you should publish it so all may know. Surely no one envies them in their native land or their color or status.” (Negative Letter 19, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFF0D9″ bgcolorto=”EDDED1″ image=”null”]”I would appreciate an explanation from you as to how the priesthood has become so almighty important to people who never before were even interested in the restored gospel. We must remember that a testimony and baptism must be accomplished before any male member is allowed to even be considered for the priesthood. What are you going to do now to assist in the conversion and baptism of these people so that from that day they will be allowed “full fellowship” in the restored Church?” (Negative Letter 24, archive.org)[/stextbox]

Members should know their place

To anyone who grew up in Mormon culture, it should not be surprising that this section is by far the longest. This thread is woven into almost every letter Udall received – members should not question the leaders!

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”…Seek not to counsel your God. …Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. …Let’s let the Lord decide when to reveal a change concerning the Priesthood.” (Negative Letter 3, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”Your insistent demands that the LDS Church bestow the rights of the Priesthood of God on the Negro race are somewhat foolish and vain as whether or not the Negros gain this priviledge is between them and the Lord, not between you or I. …Just because you happen to be in a currently powerful political position in the world does not give you the right or responsibility to dictate what the Lord must do to His children whether they be Negros or any other race upon the face of the earth.” (Negative Letter 4, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”I am very much displeased with you as a public servant and as a representive of the LDS Church! To think that the Lord has discontinued to give His word and instruction to His Prophet and has now spoken to a “lay” member of the church, makes me happy to know really where the TRUTH is. I have always been taught to keep my eye on the Prophet, and not a person who claims, because of his government position, to be in the “Know how” concerning church doctrine!!” (Negative Letter 5, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”The fact that your parents were Mormans before you were born does not make you an authority on running the affairs of the Church of Jesus Christ.” (Negative Letter 6, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”Have you no civility nor sympathies for our leaders, burdened with so many unsolved problems? Or who do you think you are to presume you can force by public declaration on man, David 0 McKay, to open up the windows of security on the negroes? Are you beyond polite, personal communication?” (Negative Letter 8, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”Too many people have the mistaken concept that this is a convention of man and can be merely altered by decision of a committee or counsel. This is not possible when one realizes the nature of our church and it’s complete dependence on revelations for which is the only means that the revelation concerning the denial of the priesthood unto the negro can be changed. …It is not for a priesthood holder to contend with the church or the general authorities on matters concerning direct revelation by speculation, it is rather his responsibility and obligation to see that it be promulgated and carried out.  …it is scriptural doctrine that the Negro will receive the priesthood when the time comes. This time will be revealed by revelation and not due to political or social expediency or any other means. ” (Negative Letter 10, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”You know what happened to Lucifer when he told God how to run affairs. In a God inspired church even the highest don’t dare tell God our father how to run the affairs on earth. Don’t make a fool of yourself for your worthy ancestors sake” (Negative Letter 11, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”It is the Lord’s priesthood and he has the power to designate to whom it shall be given, and that power of designation has never been given to man. You certainly owe an apology to President David O McKay. ” (Negative Letter 13, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”The fact that you, Mr. Secretary, and others like you and the churches of the world, as it were, seek in ignorance to deride and malign the church and its ordained authorities, and “pursuade” through pressure and innuendo, said church and authorities to a supposed “popular” position will do nothing more than cause us to resolve the stronger to sustain truth at all cost. ” (Negative Letter 14, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”A few of the left-wing Church members seem to think that this doctrine is man-made. This fortunately is not true. This doctrine comes directly from our Father in Heaven, for which I’m grateful. When our Father in Heaven decides the time is right for the prophet to change the doctrine of the Church, I’m sure this will be done – – but not until. … leave the affairs of the L.D.S. Church doctrine to the leaders of the church.” (Negative Letter 16, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”Why don’t you run the Interior Department and let the General Authorities administer the doctrine of the “Mormon” Church. If the Lord wants these doctrines changed I feel he is capable of sending an angel to the proper authority and giving them instructions. …If the Lord felt you are the one to establish his doctrines why then were you not called to be Pres. of the Church instead of Mr. McKay?” (Negative Letter 21, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”The Lord’s purposes will move on. You must realize that the Mormon Church is, in actuality, the Church of Jesus Christ. Evidence, both scientific and spiritual are testaments to this fact and any sincere person would believe this message. You must humble yourself from your high throne and seek the scriptures before seeking doctrinal change through changing social conditions. We are not Catholics, Mr. Udall. when the time comes, The lord will speak but not through the Secretary of the Interior or any other branch of the government.” (Negative Letter 22, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”You say the issue of the colored people and the Priesthood must be solved. May I ask you a question? Who are you to instruct the Lord’s Prophet? Further, is it any of your business how the Lord establishes His Priesthood on His Earth?” (Negative Letter 23, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”If you know anything about Church government, you should know that David O. McKay is the mouth piece of God and he does not take such matters in his own hands as it appears that YOU are going to have him do. This, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints is not just another social organization that can change its laws and by-laws to suite the will of its members. Jesus Christ is still at the head of His Church and His Will will be carried out by those who have been called to do so. …remember what happened to that one of the Children of Israel who tried to steady the Ark of the Covenant after they all had been told, not to touch it Take that as a parable unto yourself, and don’t try to tell President McKay what to do. This is a time for us all to see to it that our lamps are trimmed and full of oil. ” (Negative Letter 26, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”Could it be that you have forgotten the Church was organized through Divine Revelation from God and is still guided from HIM through our Prophet David 0. McKay? I am sure no one in Washington, D. C, including yourself, can take it upon themselves to make any changes. ” (Negative Letter 27, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”There is one thing you have forgotten with your background as a ”Mormon”. The Lord spoke to his Prophet Brigham Young concerning the Law of Plural Marriage. He and He alone will direct His Prophet on the earth today, President David O. McKay. Nothing anyone tries to do will change that fact. …The people of the world will change their religions to fit their personal desires, birth control, etc. But this isn’t from God. …The world will not understand “God’s will” by this type of demanding, we as Latter-day Saints should not be weak like the world and dare to think we can demand anything from our Prophet, This is a privilege we earned to prepare ourselves for Eternal Life and I abhore your tactics.” (Negative Letter 28, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”you are lacking in that one great principle of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints to witt: “To support the general authorities of the church”. …I am a convert to the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints having come into the church in August 1957 at the age of 51, and I know better than to make statements, past, present, and future that you are supposed to have made.” (Negative Letter 30, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”I cannot help but believe you are not so presumptuous as to believe the reasoning of man preempts the wisdom of God who “Reveals nothing except through his Prophets”” (Negative Letter 37, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”…the wording of your letter indicates that you were telling the General Authorities what to do instead of voicing your personal opinion in the form of a suggestion. You also completely disregarded the fact that this Church is run by Jesus Christ by direct revelation. We do not have council meetings to debate and change Doctrines.” (Negative Letter 39, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”The fifth article of faith says “we believe that a man must be called of God…” What right and authority have you to teach doctrine which is contrary to the earliest church and try to make it appear as church doctrine? I hope Pres McKay, who has power and authority, will tell you to mind your own business and not informed, predict or prophesy regarding the doctrine of the LDS church. …You have authority to tell others when to open and close headgates on big dams, but please don’t assume that you have any right nor power to tell the leaders of the LDS church what they should do.” (Negative Letter 41, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”I would like to ask you how can you get the Lord to come and give a revelation when and what you want? We believe that the L.D.S. Church is led by revelation and this information has to come from God and it is his desire and not mans wishes toward his people.” (Negative Letter 42, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”I am well aware of our individual right to our own opinions, and, I exercise it frequently. However, this question is not one in which I feel that any member is qualified to judge. I am sure that you are aware that we should support church authorities in all matters pertaining to our spiritual welfare. I do, and I do not question the wisdom. I think you should too. …One thing I would like to make clear, God does not speak to us as individuals or collectively except on matters that pertain only to us as individuals. He has a prophet upon the earth and He speaks to him!” (Negative Letter 43, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”Stop trying to be the Prophet!!! A good Mormon sustains the leaders of his church. Are you a good Mormon? If you’ve been thru the temple you have stated that you would uphold the leaders of our church. Why do you publicly try to force the Prophet to change the church’s position?” (Negative Letter 47, archive.org)[/stextbox]

Thou Shalt Not Embarrass the Church

To many readers, Udall’s main sin wasn’t the fact that he had asked the questions, but rather the fact that his open letter embarrassed the church, possibly scaring away potential converts.

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFD4DE” bgcolorto=”F0C0D3″ image=”null”]”To think that you, as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, could be so helpful as a missionary in your IMPORTANT position, then you allow such a release in the newspaper makes me ashamed to think that we have such people in our church. Instead of building up the Kingdom of God, YOUR tearing it apart and making it very difficult for the Church to move ahead.” (Negative Letter 5, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFD4DE” bgcolorto=”F0C0D3″ image=”null”]”It is misquotation and apparent dissensions such as this which void all the good efforts of the missionary program and individual members of the church.” (Negative Letter 10, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFD4DE” bgcolorto=”F0C0D3″ image=”null”]”If apostates like you would keep their mouth shut, there would not be any reproach brought upon the church in the minds of the uninformed or ill-informed public.” (Negative Letter 19, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFD4DE” bgcolorto=”F0C0D3″ image=”null”]”Just what kind of a Latter Day Saint are you? you certainly weren’t thinking very straight when you made front-page criticism of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints regarding the Negroes not permitted to hold the Priesthood in the Church.” (Negative Letter 27, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFD4DE” bgcolorto=”F0C0D3″ image=”null”]”Why don’t you tray to correct this thing instead of putting our church up to ridicule.  …What you have said won’t bother me but you have done irreparable damage to many who were just ready to come into the Church or who were being a little lax. I think you should get down on your knees and ask God’s forgiveness for the harm you have done. Maybe He will forgive you.” (Negative Letter 29, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFD4DE” bgcolorto=”F0C0D3″ image=”null”]”…there are proper channels of authority and discreet methods of doing this which I feel you have grossly violated and in doing so have caused a great deal of harm to the Church’s public image and also have created dissention, confusion, and dismay among the members of the Church in general. You should have presented your ideas to your Bishopric and then to the stake presidency and finally to the First Presidency. Also, and MOST important, this should have been done in privacy and in a confidential manner, rather than an open letter to a publication that would eventually reach the general mass media and gain nationwide publicity.” (Negative Letter 39, archive.org)[/stextbox]

You are ignorant

Many readers felt that the only way Udall could hold the views that he did was that he really wasn’t knowledgable about “true doctrine.” They wrote to inform him of that fact.

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”D4E6FF” bgcolorto=”C4D6FF” image=”null”]”From an article in the New York Times I learned of a letter you had written to the Dialogue stating our church was wrong in withholding the priesthood from the Negros. If you knew as much about the Gospel as you do about the affairs of state, you would never have written such a letter. …The priesthood was witheld from the Negros by God himself for  reasons unknown to man…In case you are interested, this information, witholding the preisthood from the Negros, is found in the Pearl of Great Price as a revelation given to Enoch, the prophet at that time. If you are a good Latter Day Saint, some serious thought and study should be worked into your busy schedule so that you will not make remarks of this kind.” (Negative Letter 6, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”D4E6FF” bgcolorto=”C4D6FF” image=”null”]”I felt it necessary to express my sympathy to you for your apparent lack of knowledge and testimony of the truthfulness of the Gospel.” (Negative Letter 7, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”D4E6FF” bgcolorto=”C4D6FF” image=”null”]”If you had been a life long active member of the church I do not believe that you would have made the irresponsible statements that you have made. I can only assume that in reality you have very little understanding of the teachings of the church.” (Negative Letter 17, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”D4E6FF” bgcolorto=”C4D6FF” image=”null”]”I read your article in ‘Dialogue’ pertaining to the acceptance of the Negro into the Priesthood of our church and it brought to mind the saying “He who knows nothing, speaks most about it.” (Negative Letter 37, archive.org)[/stextbox]

Get out of the Church

If you don’t support the racist teachings of the church – then GET OUT!! This loving concept was communicated to Udall in a number of ways.

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”E5FFD1″ bgcolorto=”CDF2BD” image=”null”]”Of course if you covet the stewardship presently invested in President David O. McKay, then perhaps you might prefer to lead another dissenting group away from the Church — a move similar to that which was led away after the death of Joseph Smith.” (Negative Letter 7, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”E5FFD1″ bgcolorto=”CDF2BD” image=”null”]”If you don’t fully understand your own religion – why don’t you transfer to some other faith? It’s obvious you don’t understand your own church’s teachings.” (Negative Letter 9, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”E5FFD1″ bgcolorto=”CDF2BD” image=”null”]”…if I believed that my church was the last to receive the word of God, I would most assuredly change. Maybe this is the logical thing for you to do. Go with those who conform and adjust their doctrines to the popular notions of so-called “majorities.”” (Negative Letter 14, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”F5F5F5″ bgcolorto=”E3E3E3″ image=”null”]”If our church is true that the policy is true and it is instigated by God not by man! if I were in your shoes I would make a public apology to our prophet David O McKay and Joseph Smith soon. If not I wouldn’t consider myself a member of the church ( you have apostatized !) any more. If you do not do this I hope the authorities excommunicate you!” (Negative Letter 15, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”E5FFD1″ bgcolorto=”CDF2BD” image=”null”]”Should you persist in following the line of thought as outlined in the Arizona Republic, supposeingly over your name, I suggest that you request that your name be removed from the membership rolls of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.” (Negative Letter 30, archive.org)[/stextbox]

Scriptural Defense

Many readers took it upon themselves to point out certain scriptures and church historical facts which support the racist teachings about the Priesthood ban. It is interesting to note that while the ban has been removed and the “folklore” has been disavowed – these scriptures remain cannon. Members have had to resort to distorted interpretation of these scriptures in order to avoid their obvious literal meanings. ((See the “Blacks and the Scriptures” post for more information about the use of idioms to reinterpret these otherwise racist scriptures))

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFFB8″ bgcolorto=”FAEC6E” image=”null”]”For it is prescribed in the Scriptures. In the pearl of Great Price Abraham chapter 1 verse 27 it says “Now Pharaoh being of that lineage by which he could not have the right of Priesthood. …” it mentions in verse 2 of the same chapter and thus, from Ham sprang that race which preserved the curse in the land.” and this original curse is described in Moses chapter 7 verse 22 “and Enoch also beheld the residue of the people which were the sons of Adam; and they were a mixture of all the seed of Adam, save it the seed of Cain, for the seed of Cain were black, and had not place among them.” The curse is further described in verses 36 and 37 of Chapter 5 of Moses.” (Negative Letter 10, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFFB8″ bgcolorto=”FAEC6E” image=”null”]”The teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith were that the Negro cannot hold the priesthood. He had his chance of the pre-existence and he rejected it.” (Negative Letter 13, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFFB8″ bgcolorto=”FAEC6E” image=”null”]”You call for a resolution of the Negro problem within the church but not by what you refer to as “pious moralistic platitudes.” May I ask you to what are you referring. Is the Book of Mormon a “pious moralistic” platitude?” Are the Pearl of Great Price, Doctrine and Covenants and Bible “pious moralistic platitudes?” Indeed is modern revelation a “pious moralistic platitude? …I cannot understand your statements in light of the following scriptures: Moses 7:8 …Moses 7:12 …Moses 7:22 …Abraham 1:27 …Ezra 2:62 –  Udall, I presume you are quite familiar with the scriptures both Ancient and modern and therefore, there was no need for me to quote scriptures. I know, that no doctrinal changes will come through, secular pressure.” (Negative Letter 22, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFFFB8″ bgcolorto=”FAEC6E” image=”null”]”I read with disgust your article “Udall prods Mormons to Solve Negro Issue” …You evidently have not studied the Scriptures as it pertains to the Negro …Had you studied the Scriptures in regards to the Negro you would not permitted the above mentioned article over your name. I suggest that you read the following before you indulge in any more articles on the Negro question: (1) Mormonism and the Negro by John J Stewart supplemented by William E Barrett. I suggest that you study the references given in this book. (2) The Book of Moses (Pearl of Great Price). (3) Genesis 9:25-26  (4) Numbers 25:16-18 (segregation) (5) Genesis 9:25-26 (6) Genesis 28:1″ (Negative Letter 30, archive.org)[/stextbox]

Your letter was an attack

By framing Udall’s letter as an attack, readers could then take the role of the victim. This distracts from the issue at hand.

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”CFFDFF” bgcolorto=”A0E8E6″ image=”null”]”It was with regret that I read of your attack upon the church in the Deseret news. When a member of the church raises the Negro issue as you have done you really telling the world that you do not believe we have profits and are guided by God through divine communication.” (Negative Letter 13, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”CFFDFF” bgcolorto=”A0E8E6″ image=”null”]”I cannot understand your thinking on the Negro issue and I believe you are damaging yourself, the church and mankind in general by your statements which are to me, completely unrealistic.” (Negative Letter 22, archive.org)[/stextbox]

God Supports Segregation

Some people looked to scripture to see segregation a divine attribute. This is a common defense of the Priesthood ban – even today.

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”D1BAFF” bgcolorto=”AD99FF” image=”null”]”When the Lord chose the nations to which the spirits were to come, determining that some would be Japanese and some would be Chinese and some Negroes and some Americans engaged in active segregation. When he preserve his people Israel in Egypt 400 years, he engaged in active segregation. The Jews were segregated and also the Mormons.” (Negative Letter 13, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”D1BAFF” bgcolorto=”AD99FF” image=”null”]”…USA is a Pologot people of many nations, there would be confusion if both whites and blacks were the Priesthood, so in my opinion in USA it is reserved to the Whites and they are “duty bound as God’s servants” to Bless the Blacks with the Priesthood” (Negative Letter 18, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”D1BAFF” bgcolorto=”AD99FF” image=”null”]”It was God who divided unto the nations their inheritances and set the bounds of the people. Deut 37, 7, 8. It was He who made all nations and determined when when and where. Acts 17, 26.” (Negative Letter 19, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”D1BAFF” bgcolorto=”AD99FF” image=”null”]”Judaism teaches only the tribe of LEVI (whites) are priests (kohanim), Gentiles and negroes cannot hold the priesthood. God said to Israel that Israel would be to Him a kingdom of priests, negroes are imposters pretending to be priests of God! … God is a Racist! Many people of white race are Israelites. Original (true) Israelites are a White Race. Israelites were told not to marry with other races of people. State of Israel law forbids a Jew to marry a non Jew….Jesus Christ was a racist!” (Negative Letter 20, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”D1BAFF” bgcolorto=”AD99FF” image=”null”]”Although your statements may have caused untold damage or harm to our church I hope you can discuss this with your Bishop. Then you will understand this very important truth that our church doesn’t teach the doctrine of men but of our Father in Heaven. Since this is true the very character of Mormonism can’t be distorted or crippled by adherence to what our Heavenly Father has revealed.” (Negative Letter 35, archive.org)[/stextbox]

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”D1BAFF” bgcolorto=”AD99FF” image=”null”]”To your way of thinking, a true Latter-Day Saint may be a bigot and may not conform to “the great stream of modern and social thoughts” but at least true believers know that our Prophet’s wisdom is far greater than that of others existing on earth today and we dare not undo revelation that took the struggle of thousands of people, many of whom lost their lives, to defend!” (Negative Letter 40, archive.org)[/stextbox]

Special Mention

There are a few letters which are difficult to categorize. One includes a comparison with the Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation, which, if taken literally, means that “every Catholic is a cannibal!” The author then goes on to urge Udall to take a stand against Catholic cannibalism as well. (see letter 20, archive.org)

Another remarkable letter is one that was sent in by a primary age child:

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFD4A8″ bgcolorto=”EBA37F” image=”null”]”I am 13 years old, and I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I have just read an article in the Honolulu Advertiser which said that you urged the Church to change it’s attitude as far as the Negroes go. I firmly believe that the Church is divinely inspired as are ALL of it’s teachings. … If you really consider yourself to be a member of the Church, then you would realize that we practice not letting Negroes hold the Priesthood because we have been commanded to do so by our Heavenly Father. …I must say, I am very disappointed in you. You may or may not realize it but you have sorely hurt the Church. I doubt if this will change your thinking any, however I felt that I should tell you that both my mother and I am disappointed in you. Wouldn’t you be if the person you voted for wasn’t all you had thought he was?” (Negative Letter 32, archive.org)[/stextbox]

Finally, a member from California wrote and castigated Stewart Udall and all other church members who bear the name Udall in a remarkable fit of linguistic barbs:

[stextbox id=”alert” bgcolor=”FFD4A8″ bgcolorto=”EBA37F” image=”null”]”my husband knew and grew up with all the numerous Udalls and know what they would do for their own skin for their own point and now we have one of your family (to put up with) in our ward, Studio City, Burbank Stake, California and he is just your type and no one “loves” him.” (Negative Letter 46, archive.org)[/stextbox]