Blight of bigotry

The US presidential race has unearthed a disturbing factor that in previous decades and centuries has resulted in widespread horror.

The "I couldn't vote for a Mormon" factor is dangerous.  It translates to the "I couldn't employ, promote, assist, protect, respect and/or treat equally" factor.  

Religious bigotry is either a symptom of fear, or a tool of tyranny. 

Bigotry emerging from the swamp of fear is fueled by ignorance and can be countered by education and exposure.  Mormons therefore have a responsibility to invest time and effort to reach out and make contact with those not of their faith - and be a friend. Reach out, not to proselyte and convert but to accept and respect people for who they are.

Bigotry wielded as a tool of tyranny is fueled by base emotions of hatred and lust.  History has shown that this form of bigotry leads to atrocities and therefore the wider community has a responsibility to address this evil.

I have a dream that one day a man will be judged not by the dogma of his religion but by the quality of his character.