A Joe Moment

The Prophets Answer to Sundry Questions

"Are the Mormons abolitionists?"
No, unless delivering the people from priestcraft, and the priests from the power of Satan, should be considered abolition. But we do not believe in setting the negroes free."
(Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, Deseret Book Co., pgs 119 & 120)


The anti-slavery movement was in full swing when ole' Joe made this quote. The Northern states were helping those who wanted to be free, become so. Among those of the South, most believed it was Biblical to have slaves. Where Joe made this statement, I do not know, however, the state that he designated to be the land of Adam-ondi-Ahman loved their slaves. The Mormon church's official stance on slavery was mixed. Joe, he clearly put the official final word on the subject of the abolitionists within that time period. Joe Smith did not want any human, unless "white and delightfulsome", to be a part of the new movement called Mormonism.
The many 'prophets and quorums', since the time of Joe, have changed their official opinions on the abolishment of slavery many times [about as many as a baby's diaper change]. So, the final word in the present diaper is: Give me your colored human of any race, because I'm hungry for all the money I can get, no matter who is giving it to me...!