Polygamy in America

While many people think plural marriage is synonymous with forced marriage, rape and child abuse, Richard says the reason he agreed to speak outrisking prosecution, since polygamy is illegalis to open a dialogue. "This is a big step for people to look in and say, 'You know what? Yes, [plural marriage] may not be my personal choice, but it is a choice,'" Richard says.

Richard says the goal he shares with his wives is to raise children with opportunities and values. They will not, he says, force them to have plural families of their own. "We are for choice, for what people want to do when it does not harm other people," he says. "We hold our children and the raising of our children and our family very sacred."