Friendship Baptist Church, The cornerstone of our family and our community in Venice, California, is under threat.

For the past five decades, this place of worship has been more than just a building—it has been the heart of our family and served as a monument to the legacy left by Rev. L. C. Clayton, the patriarch of the Clayton family, as well as the families from our congregation that have sustained it for over 70 years. But now, this cherished institution, our home of worship, is facing an unwarranted and unlawful sale.

House of worship plays a vital role in communities, fostering a sense of belonging and providing essential social services. They are often pillars of community identity. Research confirms that when these places are sold, it can devastate communities, causing a significant loss of heritage and community cohesion (reference: "How to Save a House of Worship," National Trust for Historic Preservation).

We plan to inform local authorities, and surrounding congregations, based on further broadening our community to halt the unlawful sale of our beloved Friendship Baptist Church. We want to continue nurturing the legacy passed down to us and ensure that future generations can enjoy the same sense of community and spiritual home as we have. Upholding the integrity of our community by preserving our home of worship and the place that has served as a beacon of hope for many in times of need. Please stand with us and sign this petition to stop the unlawful sale of Friendship Baptist Church.