The discussions revealed that many people on both "sides" of the divide in Salt Lake City feel judged or excluded because of their religious beliefs, or, lack of religious beliefs. And consequently, many feel isolated, marginalized, or even socially erased. "The hurt goes both ways. LDS to other, other to LDS," noted one participant. "Many feel persecuted on both sides." "There exist deep wounds in our community," said another. "Lots of damage has been done. It will take a long time to repair."

"The hurt goes both ways. LDS to other, other to LDS. Many people feel persecuted on both sides."

Many participants also described the painful and frustrating experience of feeling stereotyped — neatly boxed into a category and then dismissed. "There is a manager at my work," noted one participant. "He said all LDS people are either brainwashed or stupid. I said, 'Wait a minute. You don't know me. I'm Judy (not her real name). Not LDS Judy."' Said another, "People look at me and because I have long hair they assume I'm either crazy or evil."

Children are especially affected by the divide.

When people spoke of how they experienced the divide, they often spoke about the experiences of their children, or of their own childhood. They told stories of children coming home in tears because they were excluded by other children. They spoke of feeling judged and rejected. They described feeling isolated and alone.

"Cycles of intolerance are generational."

"The divide is learned."

Said one person, "It was difficult for me growing up. I'm not black or gay, but I definitely know what it's like being on the outside looking in." Said another, "In high school, I had seminary in the morning. People would say to me, 'What is that? A crack house you are going to?' I had friends who labeled me as 'polygamist.' They didn't do me any physical harm. But why didn't they just ask me what I believe?"

Many worried that children are unintentionally being taught to perpetuate the divide. "I worry about the messages we are sending to our children," said one participant. Another noted, "Cycles of intolerance are generational. Intolerance is learned through cultural practices." Said another, "The divide is learned."

The divide has many causes and contributions and is more complex than many realize.

In sharing personal experiences of the religious divide, participants also explored what causes or contributes to the divide. Some observed that "religious divides occur anywhere one faith is dominant." Others suggested that "the divide in Salt Lake City is more cultural than religious," that is, arising from different social norms and practices rather than from religious beliefs.

"People establish a safe distance. We pay a price for that.