By Stephanie M. Duncan
MONROVIA – A coalition identifying itself as Liberian Human Rights Defenders has strongly criticized the recent “Strengthening Households” conference organized by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS).
The organization argued that the event promotes values and policies they believe could undermine women’s rights, public health, and household diversity in Liberia.
In a statement issued Wednesday, the group rejected what it described as attempts by the LDS Church to position itself as a champion of Liberian families while advancing an agenda that they claim does not reflect the realities of Liberian society.
The group argued that Liberian households have traditionally been sustained through community support, shared responsibility, and mutual care, rather than externally imposed models of family life. They maintained that the country’s most pressing household challenges include access to quality healthcare, education, economic opportunities, and protection from violence.
“We reject the notion that there is only one type of household worthy of recognition and support,” the statement said, emphasizing that single-parent families, grandparents raising children, blended families, extended households, and other family structures all contribute to the nation’s social fabric.
The human rights advocates also raised concerns about what they described as efforts to influence policies related to reproductive health, comprehensive sexuality education, and women’s decision-making rights. According to the group, limiting access to health information and services could worsen existing challenges such as gender-based violence, adolescent pregnancy, and maternal mortality.
The statement further defended comprehensive sexuality education, arguing that accurate information helps young people recognize abuse, avoid exploitation, and make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.
The coalition additionally questioned the role of foreign religious institutions in shaping national policies and social norms, asserting that Liberians are capable of determining what is best for their families and communities.
While emphasizing respect for religious freedom, the group maintained that discussions about family wellbeing should not come at the expense of public health, child protection, gender equality, or the rights of women and girls.
The LDS Church has promoted its “Strengthening Households” initiative as an effort to support family stability and values. However, the criticism from the Liberian Human Rights Defenders highlights the growing debate over the role of faith-based organizations in influencing social policy and family-related issues in Liberia.
The group concluded by reaffirming its commitment to defending household diversity, public health, comprehensive sexuality education, and the rights and dignity of women, girls, and children across the country.
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