Our Values
Our Core values are central to all Utah residents
1. Community and Neighborliness
Utah consistently ranks among the top states for volunteerism and civic engagement.
Common expressions of this value include:
- Willingness to serve and help neighbors.
- Strong traditions of community events, service projects, and local governance participation.
- Emphasis on mutual support during hardship (e.g., natural disasters, health crises, family challenges).
This value can be embraced by both faith-based and secular communities alike.
2. Family and Intergenerational Connection
Family is a bedrock of Utah culture — not just in terms of nuclear family but extended kinship and community “family.”
Key expressions:
- Intergenerational households and gatherings.
- Family-centered activities and recreation.
- High prioritization of children’s education, well-being, and moral development.
Even among nonreligious Utahns, family remains a primary anchor of identity and purpose.
3. Faith, Spirituality, and Freedom of Conscience
While LDS faith is predominant, Utah’s spiritual landscape includes Catholics, Protestants, Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, Indigenous spiritual traditions, and a growing number of secular or “spiritual but not religious” individuals.
Core shared principles include:
- Respect for personal faith and freedom of belief.
- A sense of higher purpose, whether spiritual, ethical, or civic.
- Valuing personal moral development and responsibility.
A strong ethos of faith can be expressed inclusively, allowing multiple traditions to coexist respectfully.
4. Hard Work, Self-Reliance, and Innovation
From its pioneer heritage to its modern “Silicon Slopes” tech boom, Utah has long valued industriousness and entrepreneurship.
Examples of this value in action:
- Encouragement of self-sufficiency and resilience.
- Strong support for small business, startups, and education.
- Emphasis on personal responsibility and contribution to the common good.
This aligns traditional pioneer grit with modern innovation and economic development.
5. Stewardship of Land and Environment
Utah’s landscapes — from red rock deserts to alpine forests — are sacred to many residents.
Cultural threads include:
- A shared love of the outdoors and recreational access.
- Conservation and responsible use of natural resources.
- A sense of stewardship over land, water, and wildlife.
This value bridges environmentalists, farmers, recreationists, Indigenous communities, and faith-based stewards.
6. Education, Learning, and Personal Growth
Utahns often express a deep commitment to learning as a personal, family, and community responsibility.
Manifestations include:
- Investment in youth programs, schools, and higher education.
- Cultural emphasis on self-improvement and lifelong learning.
- Support for both academic and vocational pathways.
A shared commitment to education strengthens cross-sector collaboration and innovation.
7. Civic Engagement and Collective Responsibility
Utah has strong traditions of participatory governance — from local town councils to state-level civic movements.
Key expressions:
- High voter turnout and local government participation.
- Grassroots organizing and community building.
- Responsibility to “make the community better” rather than waiting for others to act.
This value transcends political affiliation when focused on community well-being.
8. Welcoming Spirit and Hospitality
Although historically homogenous, Utah’s population is becoming more diverse. A modern core value emerging strongly is inclusive hospitality:
Examples:
- Welcoming newcomers (immigrants, refugees, new residents).
- Building bridges between cultures and communities.
- Ensuring belonging for those outside the dominant culture.
This aligns with traditional “neighborliness” while expanding its reach.
9. Balance Between Tradition and Progress
Utah has a unique ability to hold onto cultural roots while embracing change.
Expressions:
- Respecting heritage, history, and faith traditions.
- Encouraging innovation in business, the arts, and education.
- Seeking harmony rather than polarization between old and new.
This balance is a hallmark of Utah’s evolving identity.
10. Compassion, Service, and Human Dignity
Finally, beneath many of Utah’s cultural and spiritual expressions is a shared sense of compassion.
Core practices include:
- Charitable giving and volunteerism.
- Support for vulnerable populations.
- Seeing the dignity and worth of every person.
This value can anchor both faith-driven and secular civic initiatives.