Section 1. Mission
Mormons for Equality and Social Justice (MESJ) is a grassroots organization of Latter-day Saint individuals who are “anxiously engaged” (D&C 58:27) in working for the gospel values of peace, equality, justice, and wise stewardship of the earth in a spirit of Christ-like charity and concern. We do this (1) by raising awareness in Latter-day Saint communities of the inequalities and injustices that exist in the world today, (2) by actively participating in political processes to resolve these issues, and (3) by promoting and engaging in humanitarian service.

As Latter-day Saints, we come from a heritage of people who had “a vision of a different world, a world where injustice and oppression, poverty and ignorance would be dispelled and a world where men and women would be brothers and sisters” (Alexander B. Morrison, in Church News [14 Oct. 1995]: 4). We have been urged by Church leaders to work towards making that vision a reality in today’s world by being “full participants in political, governmental, and community affairs,” “using gospel principles as a guide and...cooperating with other like-minded individuals” (First Presidency letter, 15 Jan. 1998, in Ensign [Apr. 1998]: 77).

LDS scripture and prophetic teaching speak out strongly for social justice: for peace, equality, democracy, human rights, and wise stewardship of the earth’s resources. Latter-day Saints are enjoined to “plead the cause of the poor and the needy” (D&C 124:75) and to work towards a society in which “there [are] no poor among [us]” (Moses 7:18). We are challenged to “renounce war and proclaim peace” (D&C 98:16). The Book of Mormon teaches that “there should be an equality among all” (Mosiah 27:3) and calls us to stand against racism, gender inequity, and injustice on the principle that “black and white, bond and free, male and female;...all are alike unto God” (2 Nephi 26:33). The scriptures commend democracy, constitutional law, and human rights (Mosiah 29:26; D&C 98:5; D&C 101:77), while speaking harshly against inequity, exploitation, oppression, and violence (2 Nephi 20:1-2; 3 Nephi 24:5; D&C 38:26; Moses 8:28). Scripture teaches us that we are stewards of the earth and its resources, which should be used “with judgment, not to excess” (D&C 59:20).

As Latter-day Saints, we seek the guidance of the Spirit and look to the teachings of Church leaders in our efforts to achieve equality and social justice in our communities and the world at large.

MESJ is an independent organization. We are not officially affiliated with the LDS Church nor with any political party.

Section 2. Principles
We work to end poverty in our communities and around the world.
Plead the cause of the poor and the needy. (D&C 124:75)

We seek justice and dignity for workers.
I will be a swift witness against those that oppress the hireling. (3 Nephi 24:5)

We seek equality for all, regardless of race, nationality, or creed.
There should be an equality among all. (Mosiah 27:3)

We defend human rights for all people.
Laws should be maintained for the rights and protection of all flesh. (D&C 101:77)

We stand for participatory democracy.
Do your business by the voice of the people. (Mosiah 29:26)

We stand against racism, gender inequity, and other forms of discrimination.
Black and white, bond and free, male and female; all are alike unto God. (2 Nephi 26:33)

We work for peace and an end to violence.
Sue for peace to all people. (D&C 105:38)

We seek wise stewardship of the earth’s resources.
All things which come of the earth are to be used with judgment. (D&C 59:18, 20)