Beth Emmanuel Community Town Hall

Our History. Our Community. Our Responsibility. Beth Emmanuel B.M.E. Church on Grey Street is an important part of London's Black History on Grey Street is an important part of London's Black history. The fight to protect its heritage designation raised important questions about the future of the building, the people connected to its history, and the decisions that will determine what happens next. Now, it's time for our community to come together. Join us for a transparent, respectful and community-led discussion about what happened at Beth Emmanuel, where things stand today, and what steps we can take to help protect the historic Black church and its legacy. This gathering is not about attacking an individual, congregation or denomination. It is about our collective responsibility to protect our history, support the people connected to it, and advocate for transparency and accountability in decisions affecting our community's heritage. The building matters. The people matter. The process matters. All are welcome to listen, learn, ask questions and help determine what comes next. What to Expect A Shared Timeline of Events Reveiw the documented history of Beth Emmanuel, including the heritage preservation campaign, House of Destiny's experience, efforts to purchase the property, and the current status of the proposed sale. We will distinguish confirmed information from disputed accounts and unanswered questions. Firsthand Perspectives Hear from House of Destiny about its experience with the church and the events that led to its displacement. Pastor Sandie Thomas and a representative of the British Methodist Episcopal (BME) Church have been invited to participate; their attendance has not been confirmed. A Conversation About Preservation and Stewardship Discuss the condition of the building, what may be required to preserve it, and the responsibilities invovled in protecting historic Black church properties for future generations. Community Questions and Open Dialogue Participate in a moderated discussion about ownership, transparency, governance, heritage preservation and community representation. We welcome difficult questions and thoughtful contributions grounded in respect. Concrete Next Steps Identify opportunities for community involvement, practical actions to support preservation, and ways to strengthen transparency and accountability around important Black heritage assets. Our Shared Commitment This town hall is being organized for our community, not against any individual or group. We ask everyone attending to approach the discussion with respect, distinguish facts from allegations, and make room for different perspectives. We may not leave with every answer, but we can leave with a clearer understanding of the issues, the questions that remain, and the work still to be done. Let's come together to preserve our history, protect our heritage, and help shape what comes next. Brought to you by the comunity, with support from Black London Network, London Black Heritage Council, and Black Lives Matter London.