Officials and ex-FLDS members commend efforts to assist individuals leaving polygamist communities

Officials and former members of the Fundamentalist LDS (FLDS) movement have expressed appreciation for initiatives aimed at supporting individuals seeking to leave polygamist communities. At Holding Out HELP’s annual fundraiser in St. George, Utah, on November 17, 2023, several speakers highlighted the importance of external assistance in enabling individuals to escape such environments. Jeff Black, one of the featured panelists, shared how the support of compassionate outsiders allowed his children to leave the FLDS community.

Private investigator Sam Brower and attorney Roger Hoole, also part of the panel, discussed the challenges faced by those within polygamous communities. Hoole emphasized that many individuals do not recognize they are being victimized, as their lives are shaped by the norms they have known. He noted that small acts of kindness, such as offering a plate of cookies or helping with yard work, can make a significant difference.

During the event’s Q&A session, panelists encouraged the public to engage with those in polygamist communities through acts of compassion. One former member, whose last name was withheld, shared a personal experience of receiving unexpected kindness while shopping. A stranger offered a hug, and another gave her $20, saying, “I feel like you need this.” These interactions underscored the potential impact of simple gestures on individuals in difficult circumstances.

Holding Out HELP, founded by Tonia Tewell, has been a key organization in providing support to those leaving polygamous communities. The fundraiser brought together former members and advocates to raise awareness and funds for ongoing efforts. The event reflected a broader recognition of the need for community support and the role of outsiders in facilitating freedom and safety for those within such communities.

The discussions highlighted the complex dynamics of polygamous communities and the challenges faced by individuals seeking to leave. While the FLDS movement has been the focus of legal and social scrutiny, the event emphasized the importance of compassion and understanding in addressing the needs of those affected. The panelists’ testimonies provided insight into the lived experiences of individuals within these communities and the value of external support in their journey toward freedom.

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