The announcement by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints marked a pivotal moment in the organization’s history, as it officially lifted the ban on priesthood ordination for black men, a policy rooted in exclusions that had been enforced since the 1830s. This policy change resulted from a revelation granted to President Spencer W. Kimball, who had been advocating for a reconsideration of the church's stance on race. Supporters of the change celebrated it as a moment of liberation from longstanding restrictions, while critics remained wary of the implications for church doctrine and practice.

The Church had previously justified the priesthood ban through various interpretations of scripture and teachings from earlier church leaders. This ban not only prevented black men from holding the priesthood but also restricted their participation in certain church ceremonies. The 1978 revelation came at a time of considerable social upheaval in the United States, as the civil rights movement advocated for racial equality and justice. Kimball’s announcement re-defined church policies concerning race, and it was formalized through an official declaration.

This moment was also influential in shaping the future discourse on race within the Church. It prompted discussions about inclusiveness and the treatment of members of color. The Church’s new policy symbolized a shift towards a more inclusive philosophy, aligning the organization with broader societal changes regarding race during the latter half of the 20th century, while raising questions about its prior teachings and practices.