What living in Utah as a black man can be like

Episode 1124-1126: • Spencer Nugent: A Jama...
Please join us now for our Mormon Stories Podcast interview with Spencer Nugent. Spencer, along with his parents and sibling, were the first Jamaicans baptized on the island into the Mormon church. Later Spencer’s family moved to Orem, Utah. Spencer attended UVSC and BYU, served a mission to San Antonio, Texas, and became an Industrial Designer. Spencer is a renaissance man of sorts. His many talents/interests include karaoke/music, art, travel, design, drawing, landscape architecture, teaching, etc.
After Spencer was married in the Salt Lake City temple and had two sons, he and his ex-wife eventually experienced a Mormon faith crisis and divorced.
Today’s episode will cover numerous topics, including Mormon cultural imperialism/whitewashing, being black in the Mormon church, Spencer’s mission, male eating disorders, parenting, divorce, faith crises, and finding identity, morality, and community as a black ex-Mormon man in Utah.
ABOUT US:
Mormon Stories Podcast is the longest-running and most successful podcast in Mormonism - hosted by Dr. John Dehlin. At Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We also occasionally interview scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals. Our overall mission is to: 1) Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology, 2) Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis, and 3) Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions.
Mormon Stories Podcast is a product of the Open Stories Foundation - a 501c3 non-profit dedicated to supporting Mormons in religious transition.
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[@mormonstories]

Full Story: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqmzmmiJpreqiqc

[@SixteenTonesStudio]

Pt. 2 at 9:44 😁

[@erichayes451]

Utah, Wyoming ,South,North Dakota,IOWA are some states Black People should not expect a welcome wagon.

[@dbogmaw2138]

​@erichayes451 Why do you think we want a welcome wagon, how about a leave me alone wagon. That will work.

[@lilacpower2693]

@dbogmaw Best Answer Ever👍💯.

[@1972danhall]

I’m a white male. Racism is still a problem. Early in my career, as a supervisor I had to choose someone from my crew to be in charge while I had to be somewhere else. I chose the most qualified person. He happened to be black and from Central American. Later I was approached by 5 white southerners/workers. They informed me that they could not take commands from “him”. I grew up with no racism, ( I am white and my parents are good people). I immediately recognized the racism. I was pissed. I “reminded” them that their new supervisor was twice the man that they would ever be and to STFU and do what he says. This was 30 years ago. I still remember it. People are people. The color of our skin does not matter.

[@reginaboyd8422]

Thank You!!!

[@belysedushime6262]

You did well, that's the change that we need

[@teascobie6557]

Impossible to grow up with no racism. Its built into the fabric of the country. Pretty sure those people who approched to expressed they couldnt take orders from him will tell you they have good parents and arent racist. Being a racist isnt a bad word...it just what people are...

[@Julia-vb3rk]

👍

[@Sagacious3237]

Thank you

[@paulcarson7752]

When I was growing up people would intentionally tell their kids not to play with us. Not because we were black, because we weren't Mormon. 🤨

[@harrw3168]

The same is with the Hassid, no difference.

[@chlyri]

Yeah, that happens a lot. If you were Mormon, then your skin color may have had you treated like a charity project if you weren't shunned.

[@the4cqueen148]

No, it's because you were black. They hate black people.

[@calimuzik5497]

lol

[@lelialarosiliere742]

As much as they think that they are so pure and white as snow, their hearts are as dark as their stinking Graves. Even if they pretend to be human. Behind their white masks are pure skeletons.

[@sammanthaford3982]

4 years old in grocery store in KS . . . police arrested a woman with a hand counter for theft because she put her hand in her pocket. Dad and siblings are dark. Took us home and ran drills on how to not put our hands in pockets AND drills on how to let police search your bags. (Hint: turn bag upside down and shake. Keeps them from planting something in the bag when they reach into it.)

[@GJ-vj4lj]

I grew up in Southern Idaho just north of Utah. I can say as I grew up that there was absolutely no Black people around me in schools, community, church nothing. It was a highly mormonized community. I was not a Mormon and could clearly seeThe racist game they were playing.

[@anxhelahysa9871]

You literally sound so ignorant. There is countries in the world where there are no white People does that make them racist? The reason why Utah/ idaho is mostly white is because of the oppression the faced in the east, what did you think? There is no black people because they’re racist and don’t allow them in those states or what? You don’t make any sense

[@AngelloDelNorte]

It's funny that seeing whitx Christians groups is all of a sudden r*cist. I dont see anyone else besides mexican people in my Catholic church, so does that make us r*cist as well , or this doesn't fit your narrative?

[@sincity5268]

What town in idaho? And go into more detail about the games

[@EriPages]

Give example

[@bigA-cy3he]

The Northwestern part of America is a white peoples Wakanda

[@dakotarobert7975]

Winter snow storm 1979 I could not get any motel to rent us a room while driving cross country in a car with no heat.

[@Plethorality]

bloody hell! that is unfair!

[@dakotarobert7975]

@@Plethorality Besides we were on our honeymoon. 43 yrs later the wife never forgive me and she hates the snow n cold weather

[@tonyacuesta7051]

I’m so sorry you had to experience such hatred in a land that belongs to us all. 😢

[@brontesegard8305]

I'm SO sorry! God bless you!

[@dakotarobert7975]

@@brontesegard8305 Thank you. YOU 2 we have been blessed by God for sure.

[@bl1429]

If you didn't do anything, have them call the police, to get a report number. Later, get the report, and go to a lawyer and sue the store.

[@SkepticalMantisCHANNEL10]

Police involvement will often make things worse, even if u did nothing wrong.

[@nunyuh111]

If you haven't lived in Utah your whole life, or if you have lived in either Orem or Ogden, then you won't get it. It has nothing to do with color. We're a Mormon state. If you're doing something wrong, or even look like you are, you're a suspect. Dude, my cousin worked at a Smith's as a security guard and my own aunt assumed I was stealing. I lived in a 2 bedroom house with 7 people at the time and she didn't. She hated my mom because she was "white trash". Went and told the whole family I was a thief. So no it's not a race thing. Just a rich vs poor thing. Poor people in Utah no matter the race gets treated badly. Also a lot of Utah has corrupt people. Mormon disguised demons. It's hard to explain.

[@t.bruceford4098]

George Floyd waited for the police....

[@reetammitra2943]

@@nunyuh111 I have lived in Provo Orem for the last 7 years and I agree with you but racism is also real here. I had much better interactions with neighbors in Provo than when I got married and moved to Orem. All our neighbors rn are plain rude. They won’t even open doors to me/us and we have tried at least 20 times in 2 years.

[@christopherjongte865]

​@@t.bruceford4098 while on drugs.

[@j0nnyism]

God that’s so grim. One thing I will never understand as a white man is that feeling when your black experiencing discrimination. It must be such a sickening thing

[@inacook2285]

That you even think this thought is light years away from many who just refuse to believe if it doesn't happen to them then it CAN'T exist

[@kensmechanicalaffair]

It hurts because you dedicate your life to being excellent and amiable, practicing tolerance and the golden rule. You do all that and still get met with the hate that this country was built on. Not to mention gaslighting.

[@rlumsden1]

are you still crying?

[@toomanysecrets7121]

You must have minus testosterone levels

[@VerticalJ]

It’s worse when people try to tell you that it can’t be that bad I don’t have it happen that often but it sometimes does and it’s not a good feeling at all but in my opinion as a 43 year old black man is that everybody gets a little bit of it because every group have people with a problem honestly.

[@jeffs4483]

Of course they are racists. It's in their doctrine.

[@brandonaeiou]

As well as the rest of society always and forever. Racism is literally what is tearing apart society today. Do you ever stop and think is this good or is it furthering the progression of humanity? Does it help assimilate different cultures and races? Has it helped? Morgan Freeman once said “ just stop talking about it”. I liked that. However why would the early days of the church be different?

[@cryofpaine]

​@@brandonaeiou ​"just stop talking about it" is how racists get away with it. You further the progression of humanity by standing up to racism. By shining a light on the problem. Not by denying its existence. As for why the early church would be any different, it depends. If you accept that the church is true, then of course it should have been different. If the church has a living prophet that receives revelation from God; if He would never let his prophet lead His church astray; if we are all children of God made in His image; if we are sent to Earth to learn to live by faith; if He loves us & wants us all to return to live with Him; and if returning to live with Him is predicated on adherence to all the precepts of the church, including receiving temple endowments, getting married in the temple, and men receiving the priesthood - then the church from day one should have commanded its members to respect and accept black people as equals. A loving God would not accept discrimination. Living by faith would be rejecting the racism of the world, rather than embracing it. Denying the priesthood & temple endowments is literally denying access to Heaven. The ONLY conclusion that makes sense is that the church is bullshit. Of course, if the church isn't true, then of course it wouldn't be any different.

[@brandonaeiou]

@@cryofpaine “just stop talking about it” was said by Morgan Freeman who is black, not me. Over the last 5-10 years racial divisions have been destroyed almost beyond repair over what happened 50-200 years ago or more. NOT what is actually happening today. Races get along great in America and were continuing to improve. You see all races marrying one another and hanging out together. It is a beautiful thing. For sure stand up to racism tho. I believe whole heartedly every person needs to stand up to any type of bigotry. Just can’t fight hate w hate, has to be love. I just don’t think we are talking about something that occurs as often as the media or political figures suggest. I think white ppl love and respect black ppl by enlarge. How racist is that? I talk to white ppl all the time and hear nothing but love for blacks. I don’t see it. Of course other places can be worse and I don’t see what’s going on in the south or wherever. I get things could improve in certain locations. Also I was commenting on the comment and not this man’s story. What happened to him was prejudice towards he and his father. I hope it happens less now than 30 years ago and would assume it happens less. Remember what happened at BYU? In the volleyball game several months ago. Completely fabricated story by the player and aunt who is extremely hateful towards whites. That was brushed over quickly as it should. BYU received a lot of hate and pretty much zero apologies. We just need to move on and love and accept. It does nothing when ppl have issues and don’t lovingly resolve them. Also, the reel and story about food for less has ZERO to do w the church. Random ppl at a food store in Provo is not the church and should not be on a anti Mormon podcast. Plenty of black ppl and other minorities that love the gospel. We ALL gods children. I believe that w every fiber of my soul. I absolutely want what is best for my African American brothers. I will be the first to step in on any sort of bigotry towards them where I can. As for the early days of the church. Brigham Young was a racist and was wrong. As well as every other person back in the day. You cannot know the truth unless you ask god. God will nothave stopped BY or any one for that matter. That’s why slavery happened. Because God allowed it and did not stop evil and command we do good instead. Never will God stop ppl doing wrong. They have to choose themselves and if you look back in history anywhere, there were many improvements. My point is, say that the church is true and God is at the head of it. You know how He works from history. Do you think God was going to tell Joseph Smith or BY everything to do right? We all have to learn and ask for ourselves. That is the gospel. Nothing but the best for you tho. I mean that sincerely. 🙏💙✌️❤️

[@cryofpaine]

@@brandonaeiou and Morgan Freeman is wrong. You can be black and still be wrong. And race relations have "gotten worse" in recent years because racists can't stand that a black man was president, so they elected a racist to replace him. And the reality is that the problem isn't worse. The problem is just now in the light of day instead of festering under the surface where we don't talk about it. Because a racist being elected to the highest office in the US was validation for other racists to be open. "Brigham Young was a racist." Then why did God make him a prophet? Why did God allow him and over 100 years of prophets to lead the church astray? When it is EXPLICITLY stated that God would NEVER let that happen? "The Lord will never permit me or any other man who stands as President of this Church to lead you astray. It is not in the programme. It is not in the mind of God. If I were to attempt that, the Lord would remove me out of my place, and so He will any other man who attempts to lead the children of men astray from the oracles of God and from their duty” Official Declaration 1, “Excerpts from Three Addresses by President Wilford Woodruff Regarding the Manifesto” “You keep your eye upon him whom the Lord called, and I say to you now, knowing that I stand in this position, you don’t need to worry about the President of the Church ever leading people astray, because the Lord would remove him out of his place before He would ever allow that to happen” (The Teachings of Harold B. Lee, ed. Clyde J. Williams [1996], 533). So, either God is ok with racism, God is a liar, or the church isn't true.

[@cryofpaine]

@@brandonaeiou yes, a black man was elected. And then a racist was elected because all the racists got pissed that a black man was elected. And "I have a friend who's black" is not a cover for racism. Just because a few rich black people support Trump doesn't mean he's not a racist. There are plenty of accounts by people who know him well or have worked closely with him which support him being racist. And the judgement of anyone who thinks he was a great businessman and president is as invalid as the judgement of someone who believes the world is flat or the moon is made of cheese. He was objectively neither of those. HIS businesses were all failures. His entire career has been coasting on the coattails of those who came before - his father, Obama. As for the church, you either believe that the church is true, in which case the teachings of the prophets are from God, in which case God is either a racist or a liar; or you don't. Because by the church's teachings, there is a significant contradiction.

[@annmcneal7804]

I hear all kinds of stories like this.

[@GiancarloFloyd]

I’m black and my girlfriend is white and I went to Utah to ask her father marry her and I personally didn’t run into any issues or noticed anything because nobody there would ever say anything to my face, but my girl really got it from people she knew her whole life. Now we will probably never go back because she broke off pretty much all of her relationships with people there she even lost family members because of my skin color.

[@kell-yh4ec]

I am black. I was thinking about moving here. I am a petite young woman do you think they would give me any issues?

[@GiancarloFloyd]

@@kell-yh4ec you wouldn’t have any issues because nobody there has the balls to say anything to anybody’s face. They’re all pretty much private and keep their prejudice to themselves. If you can get over shitty looks it’s easy. Religion and how religious that state is made that whole state into softies three Texans could take over that whole state if we really wanted to.

[@krhawkins91]

​@@kell-yh4ecDon't go there

[@krhawkins91]

Good luck on your interracial relationship still she lost her family members because of this.

[@jaemegrrl]

@@kell-yh4ec well, if you’re dark-skinned, and join up with Latter Day Saints, they’ll welcome you, but if you can actually find someone in the church, you’ll be lucky, if at all. They’re too polite to say anything to ur face, but ull have issues trying to build long term relationships there.

[@triciajones2263]

What I feel is sad for this man. His first thought was what did we do? Instead of being angry knowing that they had not done anything . Of course his father had not done anything. He should have been angry like every other American would have been. But black people don't have the luxury to process anger let alone display it.

[@jaemegrrl]

I’ma ex-Mo, my Momma is white, and me & my sister are mixed, African American. They wanted us to be baptized, after indoctrination as girls. What the Elders said before our baptism was “when you marry a White man, all is well: he can be an Elder like us, but if you marry a Black man, he can hold no power”. I shook my 11-year old head and replied “ that’s not fair! How can God say one Man is worthwhile, and the other is not?!” ( of course, I really said something like, “that makes absolutely no sense “) His reply was “Black people have tails”.

[@reginaboyd8422]

What the Hell!???

[@moonfairy74]

Lol. I’ve actually heard black people say that about white people. My response was the same. Racism is just getting worse I think.

[@mylamberfeeties875]

😳 I never met these group of people. But I am native American and wondering what he says about my people. I live way up high in the mountains ⛰

[@chlyri]

​@mylamberfeeties875 They'd say you're part of a cursed people from their scripture that has the chance to become white. They had a whole program to take Native American children and place them with white families in hopes of converting them to their religion, and their race.

[@mylamberfeeties875]

@@chlyri weird because I have read the holy Bible and God makes no distinction about the gentiles. Which I am assuming I would be in with that category. My tribe integrated with pale skins much later because we are in a isolated area and we're peaceable. It's almost like this group believes that another God created humans as well. 🤷‍♀️

[@emilym.2830]

There are so many links in description but not the link to the full episode?

[@mormonstories]

Here is Spencer's full story: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqmzmmiJpreqiqc

[@emilym.2830]

@@mormonstories thank you!! 🙏🏻

[@bunzer.of.wunzerton2235]

It's ACTUALLY episode 2

[@cynthiajones1114]

Just disgusting 🤢 behavior to be treated like this.

[@janeenbholm]

My parents were such good people! If all members of the church were like them there wouldn’t be a reason for bad feelings. One of my moms dearest friends was black, this was before African Americans could hold the priesthood. My folks were extremely kind. And sincere! I apologize for anyone that has been ugly!!

[@jisezer]

Cool story dude, but your little blanket apology means literally nothing. Just live a better life. Call out your peers on the things they do. Stand up against a racist church. Don't get on here and apologize randomly, you've done nothing.

[@KatieKat75]

@@jisezer But, you’ve taken upon yourself to criticize someone who openly feels bad about it and wants to do better. That’s not ok with you? Maybe you need to do better.

[@inacook2285]

You can't and shouldn't apologize for others..Your sentiments are more than enough❤

[@jessicabuchanan4693]

I'm so sad everytime I hear different races be treated "less than".

[@amandawright9108]

It's a crime to be black in Utah County.

[@angiechristensen638]

I'm white and grew up here, I'm 45, and I don't even like going to Utah County. Strange place. Strange people.

[@CassidyOfficially]

Yes it is. I left Provo after witnessing a white cashier tell a black woman to "get out of her line before she called the cops"🤦🏼‍♀️

[@ricocheteraw90sthebestdecade]

They love they black jazz basketball players tho

[@walkingdad506]

What a Rascist statement.

[@mariaalfonso685]

I was profiled horribly in Utah

[@lakeishamonte]

My family lived in Draper, Utah from 2016-2021 and it was an amazing experience! It was family-oriented and I met some of the nicest people. I know everyone’s experience will be different, but being in Utah restored my faith in people.

[@KeepWatchin5.56]

i agree. Utah was unforgettable

[@borderterrierpoppyadventures]

I’m sorry you had to go through this.

[@BSGwolf]

I grew up in Utah, my Grandfather told us that when he bought his first house on Jeremy Street in Salt Lake City, his so called good Mormon Neighbors started a Pentition to kick him out of the neighborhood. They also told him not to Join there church, they didn't want him to dirty it up.

[@rfsgjjewel84]

How do I get to the episode

[@mormonstories]

Here is his story: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqmzmmiJpreqiqc

[@agame1065]

I went to college in Utah. I so intoxicated on my recruiting trip I didn’t really grasp what Utah was like till I showed up for spring practice. Culture Shock is all I can say. It wasn’t a bad place but a joke amongst the out-of-staters was: who would remain in Utah after graduation. Very beautiful state but I will never go back there.

[@chorizojoe8282]

I lived in the 14th ward in Salt Lake City (which is now located in the fancy skyscraper next to the Harmons on state street) and the senior missionaries were shamelessly racist towards me. One night my wife and I had come home from the gym at around 10:30 pm and since we were still new to the area, we didn’t know where to park, so I approached them and the guy’s wife clenched her purse and he became aggressive towards me. I asked if the parking spots were free for all, and he said “I don’t have any money, no dinero amigo, no dinero” and then I asked again and he said “I don’t live here, no dinero sorry”. That’s one of many experiences of racism I had in Utah

[@ch33.tah.]

thank u.u 4 your truth

[@soniasloane6353]

Once stopped in the shop and they say come with us YOU RING THE POLICE YOURSELF then refused to go with them they can plant something in with your shopping

[@stevemeredith9022]

Religion and racism often go hand in hand.

[@Fluffylife420]

It appears ignorance and Steve do too

[@melissastreeter22]

My ancestors survived the Ice Age, but even with my pale, porcelain skin, I feel like an aüslander in Texas, Utah, North Carolina, rural Illinois , Missouri, Iowa, and a long list of other states in our continent. Outlanders are not welcome ANYwhere in an already organized tribe. How can so many people not have that important street smart already?!

[@levileausa9541]

As soon as he said Orem I believe everything he said 😂

[@slim9978]

I wish we black people would get own own towns our own dr hospital and stuff but we as a race need therapy

[@Sidewinder528]

We have done that in the past...many times. And "They" burn it down everytime

[@slim9978]

@@Sidewinder528 that's when black Americans where on their own now u have an influx of carribeans and Africans who I hope would step in

[@Sidewinder528]

@slim9978 ....LOL...The Africans and Caribbeans are not a Factor here, FBA's are still on their own, we got this. A lot of Africans and Caribbeans to hear them tell it Are not even "Black". It was FBA's who fought for equal rights in America.....Immigrants benefit off of the fighting we did.

[@greensleevesdf6687]

so segregation, you've come a long way .....😢

[@fighterck6241]

​@@greensleevesdf6687 It's indoctrination. And it's a product of society in general and social media.

[@Noeaskr]

It’s weird how varying racial experiences are in Utah. I grew up with a black uncle, two black cousins and mostly had a lot of minority friends. I never heard the N word until close to high school and that was from my black friends and wasn’t until almost college that I heard a white person say it. The most racism I saw was older people towards Mexicans.

[@dogsandyoga1743]

I drove through Utah on a cross country trip with my (then) 10 month old and his mother. Stopped in salt lake for lunch, gas etc... No exaggeration, we ran across some of the nicest people I've ever run across.

[@Josie-6]

And? Why is it that you felt the need to say that on a story about someone sharing their negative experience? “Yeah, I know your ex was super mean and racist, but he was fantastic the one time I met him.” Do you see how silly that is?

[@charlesfields8715]

I missed the whole story. I couldn't stop staring at that long ass grey whisker thinking how'd I'd yank it out and ask wtf bro?

[@crunkin1t590]

Lmfao

[@jonithompson3583]

I just moved to Utah about two years ago. I don’t see very many black people. Hearing this makes me sad we all can’t co exist the way God made us.

[@heleneocleary5888]

Life is so unfair. I mean people are unfair. I’m a kind gentle Granny who is loving also. I’ve been told by in laws that I’m evil and even by people who are related. I’ve been told I’m rude because I was cooking ahead of time. What I’m saying is it’s hard to please. So I’m not gonna try. I’m just gonna please myself from now on. 😢

[@cynthiasaracino7114]

So f ing unacceptable. I'm sorry they were treated like that.

[@elilass8410]

What episode is this?

[@mormonstories]

Here is his story: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqmzmmiJpreqiqc

[@elilass8410]

@@mormonstories thank you, please consider putting the episode links and numbers in your shorts' descriptions in the future!

[@annmcneal7804]

Scary Mormons

[@Old_Skool_Og]

And whats so crazy is the Mormans stole the history of the Black A Moors.

[@ricocheteraw90sthebestdecade]

Preeeeaaaaach

[@LoneFoxLounge]

As a Utahn, I am so sorry this happened to you. And so sorry that they acted like that to you.

[@andthen4090]

It's weird when black women and men have no bass in their voices or tone ... it's like natural for us so I think it's trained out purposefully and I hate it 😔

[@yogitheaussiedoodle8042]

not everyone has a deep voice man

[@aliciamaria5529]

I never experienced prejudice and discrimination until I moved to Utah as a teenager - after living here 40+ years I can tell you that if you're not Mormon they consider you so beneath them that anything they do to you - theft, fraud, job discrimination, injustice of any kind, etc. is not a sin in their eyes - because it was perpetrated on a non-member so its OK- and when the judges, lawyers, and cops are all Mormon - good luck finding justice. My 3 boys could not be in boy scouts because they weren't Mormon - my mom couldn't join the art guild because she was not Mormon- we had 3 men from their church try to bully my family from moving into our home because we were the first non-mormon family here and they wanted this area to remain exclusively Mormon - ya, I could tell you stories that would leave you shaking your heads...

[@ladypamela8269]

I'm 60 and remember very well how sickening it was when young. Always told to date within my race by church leaders. Told I look bad over my friends who were black men. I used to walk as friends arm in arm and were go skating. It got nasty

[@mij3801]

I just turned 60 grew up in tooele I took off at 18 never ever went back to utah just cant you know why

[@robertgibson963]

My girlfriend is black, im white. Weve been together 7 years. I grew up poor outside of the white neighborhoods. Most of my friends are hispanic so i saw racism everywhere growing up. My parents always taught me how wrong it is. My parents are older. Im 26, my dad is 75 and my mom is 65. They grew up in the deep south during the Civil rights movement. And understand very well how damaging racism is and how deeply rooted it is in the countries history. They were great teachers. Anyway, my girlfriend and i get looks everywhere. People constantly ask us if we're together when its obvious we are on a date. They call her hair "exotic" or use some other weird words. Ive been asked how ill feel being a dad of mixed kids. Like how does any of that matter. Its annoying it doesnt make sense. All races are equal and we're all human. I just dont fucking get it and it makes me mad when someone looks at the love of my life like shes less than them. Its rough man, and its even worse when i know how it makes her feel.

[@teresataylor5670]

I notice that in several youtube channels I watch that there are no black people at all in the neighbourhoods, schools, malls or anywhere. None of the families have black friends and I was going to ask them if black people live in their area because I never see any. It could just be a coincident, because I would hate to think otherwise.

[@dennismitchell1934]

Many companies have up to an 8% mark-up on their items in the effort to cover the costs of shop lifters. It is what it is !

[@user-ii3vn8tn3q]

I hate hearing this. I hate that this is America, STILL. It hurt people have to deal with this.

[@NaeNae62]

What’s the end of the story???

[@larss592]

It wasnt racist. You said yourself your dad was doing something considered sketchy. The racism is on ur side for thinking everything is about race.

[@MM-yb2fy]

Putting your hands in your pocket is not sketchy especially at a grocery store.

[@larss592]

​@@MM-yb2fy Read my comment again. I did not proclaim it to be sketchy. Smh

[@MM-yb2fy]

You used the word sketchy in the second sentence lol

[@larss592]

@@MM-yb2fy so did he

[@MM-yb2fy]

Timestamp?

[@indigodolphin687]

How can someone be so naive in the 21st century?

[@mudderjen]

Disgusting and I am so sorry this happened.

[@boysrus61]

Mormon Stories #1124 and #1125

[@theGODfather746]

Utah is dominantly white. Go to chicago and it’s the opposite. Blacks are way more civilized in utah. Also I notice blacks that were born in Africa are civilized

[@marvinthemaniac7698]

Is this everywhere in Utah? Or is it just in Salt Lake City?

[@pw3543]

That is not believable. Zero out rage and calm demeanor. Not buying it. The store had a police interrogation room with swinging light and a uneven chair I presume.

[@Gr33dyGenius85]

This health conscious father and his son are a menace! The aggression in his voice literally makes me want to relax in a hammock. All jokes aside tho, this is all very off putting and common in these “communities”. This man seems like one of the most easy going dudes I’ve ever seen, and it’s sad that he has to endure this behavior from ppl who are supposed to “know better”. It seems like this gentleman here should be the one leading, and others following. Stay strong brother, sending love and strength your way. Love you 💪

[@philipmwangi5270]

Bro looks like Jon Jones

[@gratefulme2807]

I'm not going ANYWHERE with ANYONE at ANYTIME. Just so ya'll know for the RECORD. No Siree

[@alfaakilu7191]

Is Utah a place for other than caucasian? I've been through Utah and kept going, stopped only for gas. Never looked back or even sideways. And don't tell me we're all Americans.

[@naomiemoore5725]

So what's the rest of the story?

[@oriolesfan61]

Happens outside of Utah, too

[@kathleentate8343]

It might not be because of skin color. We went to Utah. It was an awful experience. They are so rude, everywhere we went. I'm florescent white and was a Mormon. No more

[@jisezer]

"It might not be because of skin color," is what people say all the time except that for some reason my white friends don't have 15-20 stories of this happening to them. Maybe just be quiet, listen to us, and you might just learn something.

[@castlerockermom]

@@jisezer "It's because I'm black isn't it " that's kinda rude. I think what Kathleen was saying is Mormons look down on all people especially Utah Mormons.

[@chlyri]

@@castlerockermom Yes, but racism is different than just thinking they're better than everyone.

[@shanemathews4177]

I went down as a person of color to the Walmart in Provo or it was actually Sandy, a month after September 11th...I got legitimately stared at and it was very uncomfortable... Mexican guy was in there and he was very uncomfortable and we ended up shopping together

[@mariamiller4880]

He’s telling the truth I visited once and literally don’t eveeerrrrr want to go bck… only blacks I saw were the ppl w our group n we went some of everywhere for a week

[@CarlosWashingtonMercado]

I'm sorry for that bad experience.

[@fredfernandez9472]

look its my favorite TikToker!:)

[@forromaranhense8503]

1Néfi 12:23 ❤👴🏿👍🏿

[@karylmorgan7320]

I'm from VA, 60 percent black. Same issues. Utah is not the problem. 1,5 percent black.

[@Revmatchdownshift_]

If he didn't steal then nothing to worry about. I'm white and I've been accused of doing things I didn't do ..

[@sweettreatsoverload4296]

That was a bad move, never go in a backroom of a store. Tell them to c a ll the police.

[@riettarichardson9485]

Shopping while black!!!

[@jerseykillabee]

Soon as dude said is dad at his hand In his pocket the host of the show said mmmm lol

[@reyfast2830]

Happens to many people all over the world.

[@CassidyOfficially]

I'm from Provo, lived there for 4 years as a white liberal woman and I fuckin left because I witnessed the most disgusting things. I'm ex-mormon and was harassed daily. I'm so sorry you had to go through this.

[@Platypus2062]

Yeah. Being religious means never having to say you're sorry. Or wrong. Or racist.

[@benmark5212]

Can you be posting full stories 😮

[@robertray4428]

That’s a damn shame

[@samfisher320]

That’s everywhere, not just Utah. That’s AZ, GA and Mo to name a few in recent experience.

[@t-point7569]

Lots of black men and women are over qualified with skills and college degrees but still put in a box, paid less than other stuffs. Also not approved for training/ new skills. Welcome to America 🇺🇸

[@Fluffylife420]

Shhhhh…….less is more

[@millionmiledriver]

I’m here now. Weird, white, and hot is how I describe it 😂

[@american236]

That’s so SAD.

[@chadthedad03]

Doesn't he know that original mormon teachings says that his black skin is a curse from god? 😂😂😂

[@terriaranich8524]

It isn't our doctrine. I'm sorry that happened to you

[@maxrodier335]

Yep that's funny I'm from provo and I remember the food 4 less near shopko and movies 8 old school provo ha. And yes utah is very racist especially with blacks they hate Latinos too but just co exist with use especially in construction. Bieng pulled over for nothing, and bieng followed around stores is a norm, the further south u go the more racist it becomes sad really, it's how they were taught a superior ego.

[@LLStark]

This is the 'one' I've been waiting for. I knew there had to be 'one' in here.

[@fauxvirtue]

Wow that's so interesting I was walking with my son in Macy's a couple of weeks ago and somebody decided to follow us because they thought we were trying to steal something and I'm white what happens then is that shopping well white? Happens to everyone.

[@jenni8982]

I can honestly say it has never happened to me.

[@jaemegrrl]

It happens to black people more. I was with my White male friend, Bob and we were shopping for food at Whole Foods. He casually opened a bag of potato chips and was eating them as we milled around, and I was looking at the fresh, open buffet, waiting for someone to help me. I reached in once with a fork to check the taste , and a guy rolled up on me suddenly, flashed a badge and accused me of “double-dipping”. My friend Bob, who had been eating chips all along, turned 180%in the other direction as I was being accused of touching the food. Needless to say, no one stood up for me, but Bob quipped, after I left in disgust, “Well, I wouldn’t have believed it if I hadn’t seen it my self”. He never paid for those chips and it was almost 10 years before I went back there.

[@donaldclinton1975]

Hard to upvote or downvote. Feels wrong either way

[@lauraandmatthedgecock6525]

Didn’t really want to like this but it’s a good thing to share.

[@johnbee4557]

Racism is a problem because they’re racist people out there but to say this is all of Utah is ignorant.. that’s like saying there’s no racism in New York or califonia

[@debiw149]

Most white folks in slc are racist....I grew up there and I know.

[@aderynthomson5991]

I’m white and got trailed in a pro bass shop in Texas. Accused of stealing. Whaaa. It happens it over it.

[@nitanita99]

Regardless of color I always tell my son to take his hands out his pockets when we're in a store because I don't want someone thinking he stole something (my son has a habit of liking his hands in his pockets also)

[@tracyjames9191]

Sorry for your experience, but Utahns were not used to blacks being there as not many were there back then. And definitely not making any excuses.

[@stinger4712]

I hate pity stories. I dulls the spirit.

[@phish_1]

Come on United States of America! Did you forget that Native Americans or so called Indians are your ancestors???

[@annasampson9154]

It's awful to live in Utah.

[@vladimirpvm128]

почему же тогда люди не уезжают и продолжают жить там?

[@THsWife]

Happens to lots of people. Has happened to me, too. I was mad about it but I understood they were doing their job. I got over it and now if fiddling with anything in my pockets, I’ll randomly bring it out in the open to show any one who might be following me 😂

[@chlyri]

It consistently happens to minority groups more than whites. That's a problem.

[@walkingdad506]

This is ridiculous in the comments. All religions want their children to marry in their religion. Its what they believe. The child is going to or not. I have never had my children not play with others because of their religion and I have not stopped or told my children who they can have as friends. And this man doesnt know if he was singled out because they are Black or if they were just suspicious. I am not Black yet I had security follow me into the parking lot and asked me to empty my pockets. I was either acting in their eyes as someone suspicious or maybe it was because I am White.

[@CoreyJones1977]

WTF were y'all doing in Utah?🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@terrydawley3402]

I'm white and I'm the exact same type of experience but I took it as if the guy was just doing his job it was a small inconvenience and I went right back to shopping

[@MM-yb2fy]

No that's not reasonable since most normal people don't want to shop at a place th accuses them of stealing for simply having their hands in the pockets. Nowadays with camera technology you should have reasonable articulation of suspicion that you saw someone actually taking something over that person just "looks" suspicious because they had their hands on their pockets. Also at a grocery store we're not talking high value items especially something that can fit into your pockets. But that just me ....

[@rmes6]

I'm av white woman Just horrible so sorry for you and your dad

[@christopherjames3524]

Who is the most beloved athlete in Utah. Im white and it happened to me. Get on with your life, youre obviously successful