Utah billionaire Jeff T. Green was once a proud member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. However, he now has sharply criticized the church over its stance on LGBTQ rights and other social issues.

“While most members are good people trying to do right, I believe the church is actively and currently doing harm in the world,” Green wrote in a Monday letter to Russell M. Nelson, the church’s president. “I believe the Mormon church has hindered global progress in women’s rights, civil rights, and racial equality, and LGBTQ+ rights.”

CEO and chairman of The Trade Desk, Green is believed to be one of the wealthiest people from Utah, making his exit from the church especially shocking.

Green didn’t hold back with regards to the church’s financial situation.

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“This money comes from people, often poor, who wholeheartedly believe you represent the will of Jesus,” Green, who said he hasn’t been an active member of the church for more than 10 years, wrote. “They give, expecting the blessings of heaven.”

Green now says he wants to erase his membership from church records and make an official declaration against the faith. Along with Green, 11 friends and family members announced their formal resignation from the church.

In addition to denouncing his faith, Green plans to donate $600,000 to LGBTQ advocacy group Equality Utah.

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Andrew Corselli

Article by Andrew Corselli