Description

What happens when someone stops believing in Mormon theology but still feels deeply tied to its culture, traditions, and community? This presentation explores the idea that Mormonism, like other faiths, functions as an ethnicity, not just a religion.

Drawing from research on LDS disaffiliation, identity reconstruction, and cultural retention, our findings support Mormonism as a strong cultural identity—perhaps even an ethnicity—defined by shared ancestry, language, rituals, and social structures. Like Jewish or Catholic identity, many who leave the LDS Church find that their Mormon heritage remains a core part of who they are.

This session will challenge traditional definitions of religious identity and invite attendees to reflect on their own connection to Mormonism—whether they are believing, nuanced, or post-Mormon. The audience will explore questions such as: What makes an ethnic group? Why do former Mormons often retain cultural ties? How does generational Mormonism shape identity even after faith transitions?

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Am I still Mormon even if I no longer believe?”—this presentation is for you.