Unitarian Universalist Church

Is it possible for a church to be both a haven and a battlefield? At the Unitarian Universalist Church of Los Angeles, that paradox has been a living reality. Founded in 1877 by Caroline Severance, a woman whose life was a testament to progressive activism, this church wasn’t simply a place of worship. It was a staging ground for social change. The Unitarian Universalist Church of Los Angeles quickly became a hub for those fighting for justice. Its location, near the intersection of Koreatown and Westlake, placed it at the heart of a diverse community. This diversity was both its strength and, at times, a source of friction. The 1992 Los Angeles riots, sparked by the Rodney King beating, engulfed the neighborhood. The church didn’t stand idly by. It joined forces with other Unitarian Universalist congregations to create the Unitarian Universalist Urban Ministry. This ministry evolved into Urban Partners Los Angeles, a vital organization still serving the community today. The church’s history is a tapestry woven with threads of radicalism and reform. From its early days in the Severance home, known as “El Nido,” to its current location on 8th Street, the Unitarian Universalist Church has championed progressive causes. Its stance during the McCarthy era was particularly noteworthy. The church provided support to blacklisted writers and actors. It also challenged the Korean and Vietnam Wars. This activism wasn’t without its price. In 1954, the congregation refused to sign a loyalty oath mandated by the state of California. This act of defiance led to the loss of their tax-exempt status. However, they fought back, ultimately winning their case before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1958. This victory resonated far beyond the church walls, affirming the First Amendment rights of all citizens. The Unitarian Universalist Church of Los Angeles also played a pivotal role in the Unitarian Universalist Black Empowerment movement. The formation of Black Unitarians for Radical Reform (BURR) within the church was a significant step toward a more inclusive faith. This legacy of activism continues to shape the church’s identity. From Black Lives Matter to immigration rights, the Unitarian Universalist Church of Los Angeles remains a voice for the marginalized. The current poured concrete Renaissance Revival style building, designed by Allison & Allison, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of this unique congregation. It isn’t just a building. It’s a living embodiment of the fight for justice. It’s a place where faith and action intersect, where history whispers from the walls, and where the struggle for a better world continues to unfold.