In recent months, a new trend has emerged on Hollywood Boulevard, drawing the attention of locals and tourists alike. Groups of young individuals, primarily teenagers and young men, have been engaging in what they call ‘speed running’ at the Church of Scientology’s headquarters in Los Angeles. This activity, which involves quickly entering and exiting the premises, has gained significant traction on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, where videos of these ‘raids’ have garnered millions of views.
The trend appears to be fueled by a blend of curiosity and a quest for social media recognition, as participants seek to achieve viral fame. The Church of Scientology, however, has expressed its disapproval, labeling these actions as unauthorized intrusions that disrupt the sanctity of their spaces. In a recent statement, the church condemned the trend, describing it as trespassing and harassment rather than legitimate protest or civic engagement.
Church officials have reported multiple incidents to law enforcement, citing injuries sustained by staff members during these encounters. Despite these reports, no arrests have been made, according to the Los Angeles Police Department, which has received several complaints related to the incidents.
The origin of this trend can be traced back to a young content creator known online as Swhileyy. In March, he shared a now-deleted video of himself entering the Scientology premises, which rapidly gained attention. Although he has since distanced himself from the ongoing trend, stating he does not endorse such actions, his initial video seems to have sparked widespread participation.
The Church of Scientology has long been a subject of public scrutiny and fascination, partly due to its celebrity associations and controversial practices. While some former members have criticized the church’s internal culture, others, like actress Leah Remini, have cautioned against turning opposition into sensationalized stunts. Remini recently commented on the trend, urging focus on the church’s underlying issues rather than engaging in actions that might reinforce the church’s narrative of persecution.
