In early January 2002, this email message circulated through LDS and activist networks. Written by James Tobler and Jon Moyer, it called for the creation of an independent, politically progressive LDS organization. In response to this call, a meeting was held on January 16, 2002--the first meeting of the organization that one week later would be dubbed MESJ. The agenda proposed in this first email was refined as MESJ came into being, but the vision the email articulates is still at the heart of MESJ's activism.

In order to carry out President Hinckley's recent admonitions to Latter-day Saints to get involved in our communities, and in light of the numerous prophetic charges enjoining equality, economic and social justice, mercy, and above all charity, we are organizing a politically progressive organization. This organization is a forum for Latter-day Saints to discuss their temporal responsibilities and also address the political problems and inequalities that exist in the world today.

In the tradition of liberation theology past and present. this organization will be involved on a grassroots level in the communities where we live and will also organize around a progressive national agenda. We intend to address key issues relevant in today's political climate:

• economic inequality,
• all forms of racism,
• women's rights,
• gay and lesbian rights,
• environmental degradation,
• and any other practices which oppress and exploit rather than uplift.

The organization will not take any stand against Church doctrine or policies. On the contrary, gospel doctrine provides the moral justification and directing force of the organization. For truly, "all are alike unto God, black and white, bond and free, male and female..." (2 Nephi 26:33), and "it is not given that one man should possess that which is above another..." (D&C 49:20). We accept these principles as express charges for active and organized participation in political processes as well as grassroots information and humanitarian campaigns. We seek to work with other progressive organizations in our communities to more effectively achieve a just society.

We are hopeful we will be inspired in our efforts as we strive to achieve a more egalitarian society in our communities and the world at large.