A Tongan Mormon Story - Saane Siale Pt. 1 | Ep. 1771

Today John Dehlin is joined by Tongan Mormon, Saane Siale, with special guests Nate Byrd from BYU’s Black Menaces, and Beau Oyler, her former Bishop, as they delve into the unique experiences and challenges faced by racial minorities within Mormonism. They discuss the integration of Mormonism into Tongan culture, the complexities of being part of an ethnic ward, and the impact of white beauty standards on individuals of color. They also explore the internalized racism and the pursuit of academic excellence within marginalized communities, shedding light on the need for advocacy and social justice. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation as Saane shares her journey, from her upbringing to her awakening as an activist, while grappling with her faith and preparing for her future at BYU.

Part 2 here:    • Seeking Social Justice at BYU - Saane Sial...  

Episode Show Notes: https://www.mormonstories.org/podcast...

00:00:00 Intro Intentions & Themes
00:05:55 Family background
00:08:15 How the Church ended up with a lot of members of the Church in Tonga
00:21:00 Integration of Mormonism in Tongan culture in California
00:22:30 Is there a beauty in Tongan Mormon culture, but also a loss of traditional culture
00:30:00 Saane’s parents feel that “palangi” (white) wards are better/more organized than polynesian wards
00:43:00 Saane remembers supporting Prop 8 without fully understanding its implications for LGBTQ people and their families
00:57:00 Saane’s activist awakening to issues in diversity and marginalization as Christ-like
01:08:45 How was Seminary, Mutual, dances, etc. Mormon teen life.
01:14:00 Success & righteousness associated with whiteness
01:30:00 Saane acknowledges the costs and benefits of her internalized racism
01:34:00 Parents picking and choosing when to be proud to be Tongan vs idealizing white culture
01:37:30 Women of color just not part of her experience in Mormonism
01:42:30 Saane describes the betrayal of finding out more of the racist history while serving on her mission.
01:45:40 Why Saane’s upbringing would seem successful by Mormon standards
01:56:00 More on how Saane got interested in activism through history in high school
02:24:45 Duality of Anti-blackness among Polynesians along with adoption of much of black culture
02:34:00 Uniqueness of Saane as advocate at such a young age while still faithfully Mormon
02:38:00 How is Saane viewing her future as she is graduating High School and prepping to go to BYU

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