FREE VENICE
Name the crisis, Los Angeles City government is failing Venice. LA couldn't save our neighbors' homes in the Pacific Palisades. Now they can't afford to invest in Venice's disaster readiness, like life-saving storm-blocking canals.
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How much of Venice's $200M+ taxes are reinvested in Venice-based jobs and city services? How will LA protect us from floods and other natural disasters? When will public safety in Venice be a priority for the LAPD?
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We can't afford to wait for LA to protect us. Venice must reclaim its independence to become the City of Venice Beach. Together, democratically, we can invest in a bright future, canals and all.
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A Brief History of Venice
Venice of America was founded in 1905 and quickly became a popular resort and entertainment destination due to it Venice-inspired canals and amusement pier.
When the town's founder died, Los Angeles moved quickly to seize Venice. In 1925 they annexed us , claiming our beach town politics were unmanageable. By 1929, they had bulldozed the historic canals and hundreds of homes, replacing neighborhoods with oilfields. When the wells went dry, they left Venice an environmental disaster zone.
In the 2010's, LA economically bulldozed Venice again when greenlighting Snapchat's "Silicon Beach" takeover, hollowing out our small business economy only to move on a couple years later.
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In 2025, LA City's politics are unmanageable: housing & homelessness are out of control, the economy is tanking, and the city can't deliver basic government services. This year we all witnessed this government's helplessness as the Pacific Palisades burned. Would you bet coastal Venice's future on their ability to protect us from a climate change-fueled flood disaster?
We have no choice but to leave Los Angeles and forge a bright path as the City of Venice Beach.
We the People
As our own city, we the people of Venice can pursue a more democratic form of city government, guided by and accountable to voters. In fact, we can give it a start today. Please share your priorities for Venice in the chat below, and let's start building a shared vision for a bright future together.
Blog
Our Causes
Mission
De-Annexation
Welcome to the movement for the de-annation of Venice, as we strive to reclaim our identity as the independent City of Venice Beach in Los Angeles County. The current government has consistently fallen short in addressing our needs, and it's time for us to take charge of our future. By coming together as a community, we can ensure a and vibrant Venice that reflects the desires of its residents. Join us in this popular movement to restore our independence and champion democracy for the future of Venice.
Centennial Canalfest
The Once and Future Canals
October 25, 2025, will not only mark the 100th anniversary of LA's annexation of Venice but also celebrate reclaiming independence. Join at the Historic Canal Street Art Festival as we honor our past while embracing a vibrant future. In collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce and talented local artists, we will fill streets with creativity and community spirit. Come together to celebrate our heritage and the new chapter are writing for Venice!
Empowerment Programs
Building Strong Foundations
VexitLA is dedicated to building a brighter future for Venice as a free city. Our mission is to uplift individuals off the streets by providing essential health services, job opportunities, and affordable housing. We envision thousands of new housing units along our urban corridors, fostering a vibrant community that attracts new businesses and investments. Together, we can revitalize our canals and create jobs that enable people to live, work, and start families right here in Venice.
Sustainability Initiatives
Brightening Our Future
To achieve true independence from LA, we must prioritize investments that safeguard our future against the looming threats of climate change, such as devastating floods. Protecting our environment crucial, including our vulnerable coastal wetlands, beaches, and ocean waters. By focusing on clean energy infrastructure and sustainable transportation, we can ensure clean air, safe roads, and a reduced carbon footprint for generations to come.
Don't miss important Venice news!
Our Story
Mission
VexitLA was started by Ted Henderson, civic hacker and pro-democracy activist. VexitLA is dedicated to advocating for the de-annexation of Venice from Los Angeles. Our mission is to empower Venice residents to seek liberty from LA City by promoting local history and culture, educating people about our rights, and creatingn a bright vision for the future of Venice together.
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