NAPAAHC requests intervention of NYC Mayor de Blasio in demolition of historic Childs Temple

(TALLAHASSEE, FLA) - The National Association for the Preservation of African-American History and Culture, Inc. (NAPAAHC) has sent a letter to New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio requesting his support in saving the historic Faith Memorial Temple Church of God In Christ (now Childs Temple). The 95-year-old Harlem anchor, originally purposed as a theatre, is set to be demolished following a recent $2.5 million sale to Empire Dev Fund, LLC.

As stated in the organization’s letter, dated April 1, the funeral of slain civil rights luminary Malcolm X was held at Faith Temple in 1965. Late actor and humanitarian Ossie Davis delivered X’s eulogy before 1,500 mourners.

“We are committed to preserving historical landmarks such as Childs Temple, which contribute such an immense value to the American story of perseverance, achievement and faith in a time of great strife and uncertainty in American history,” said Delaitre Hollinger, Executive Director of the NAPAAHC. “We are seeking Mayor de Blasio’s support in the hopes that this monument can be preserved to tell the story to the coming generation.”

NAPAAHC has also sent similar letters to New York Public Advocate Letitia James, and Councilman’s Jumaane D. Williams and Mark Levine.

To view the letter, visit www.blackpreservation.org.