By Judy Curtis
(I have been a feminist since the 70s when my friends in Boston started Exponent II. I have stayed active in the Church feeling that my calling has been to help open minds and bring about positive change.)
One of the things Mormon feminists should do is keep track of and acknowledge all the good they are accomplishing. Feminists spend so much time calling attention to the problems of women in the Church and seeking for equality. They work hard at it and even though some of them go inactive and leave the Church, they still remain activists.
One great result of what they have done shows up in the current August 2016 Ensign— A combination of the unusual photo on the cover and the mention of an article titled “Being A Woman, an Eternal Perspective,” by Sharon Eubank, Director of LDS Charities. She refers to women as being Christian, Intellectual and Eternal Beings. She believes that misunderstandings regarding women’s roles arise when there is a disconnect between the doctrine and practice of the doctrine, and that through ongoing revelation we can recognize and eliminate misunderstandings that surface. She quotes Elders Russell Ballard, Dallin Oaks, and James Foust who all say that women receive priesthood power in the temple.
She discusses many issues and then states, “Our practices will continue to change in the Church as we learn to apply our doctrine in better and more perfect ways. I hope the next generation is even more fair and equal in its practice of the gospel.”
An article like this would never have been in the Ensign in the past. It is more moderate and liberal about women than any I have ever seen in the magazine and states that we are open to change. It is because of the feminist movement that we are beginning to see more open discussion and improvement, so we need to give thanks and continue moving forward in making positive changes in the church.
8 Responses
Thank you for the reminder. I was frustrated because so much of what she said was changed or edited out of the Ensign, but what was left was still remarkable.
I’m so proud that you’re my mother-in-law…wise words, Judy!
Thank you for this. It’s import to note the progress!
Thanks for pointing this out. This is encouraging!
I’ve been preparing the past few weeks to meet with my Bishop to discuss my deep desire to hold our new baby during her blessing next month. I’ve got a pile of scriptures, quotes, and resources and I just wasn’t sure where to start and then here it is! The Ensign article is just what feels the most right. This is just what I want to share – even when he says no for me – if he could just catch a glimpse of this beautiful vision. Thank you for writing.
Judy, I have long admired you as an individual of great integrity and balance. I admire your support of the positive while also acknowledging much progress is still needed.
Headed to read my neglected August Ensign!!!
Feminists are also changing the Church, as per the Aug. 2016 Friend! I just recently looked through it and there’s a graphic article with a really expanded description of modesty on page 36 – yay! Here’s the text:
“Modesty means…
How I act (Fits the time and place; Not showing off)
How I dress (Clean and neat; Clothes that cover my body properly and are appropriate for the activity)
How I speak (Kind words; Not bragging or rude)
How I treat my body (With reverence and respect; Keep it clean and healthy)
How I treat others (Look for the best in others – don’t judge; Treat everyone with respect and kindness)