How Did John F Kennedy Influence The Civil Rights Movement

In this week’s preparation material, the reluctance of our nation’s presidents to move forward more boldly in support of civil rights disheartened me. Senator John F. Kennedy “was not a supporter of civil rights.” a Although, as President his views changed. President Eisenhower did not pledge the power of the federal government to enforce the law, saying “I don't believe you can change the hearts of men with law.” b They seemed reluctant to help the civil rights movement forward until it became politically expedient. Up until 1978 the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints did not allow its male members of “African heritage,” to hold the priesthood and participate in callings and temple worship requiring the priesthood. Was the church also influenced by public opinion both in not allowing the blessings of the priesthood and in the 1978 decision to allow
Many church leaders wrestled with the problem. President David O McKay was concerned in part because he saw that the policy of investigating the ancestry of converts particularly in Brazil, became increasingly difficult because of such mixed ancestry in that country. He made some policy changes that allowed men with black skin to be ordained to the priesthood because they had no “African ancestry.” President McKay wished to change the policy, believing that it was not doctrinal, but policy. But he believed that the change would have to come through revelation, which revelation he desired, but did not receive. d Church leaders over the years continued to study the matter and seek advice. Most leaders and members believed that until revelation was given to change the policy that they would continue to support the leadership of the church, even if it meant enduring the pressures of society to change. President Kimball said that he would support the policy even if it meant