LOS ANGELES – A friendship between two students that go to high school in Palos Verdes knows no color.

While Tomoi Stapleton lives in the area, Marcellus Williams commutes to his private school from View Park.

“I live down in L.A. and the dynamics are very different,” said Williams.

But the distance between them hasn’t stopped them from becoming like brothers.

“He’s always been a good friend to me,” said Williams. “He’s let me stay at his house when I was stuck up in PV or didn’t have a ride home immediately.”

On this day Stapleton organized a paddle out to show support for Black Lives Matter, and also for his friend.

“Marcellus is a great friend so a big part of this goes to him and also his family,” said Stapleton.

Dozens of mostly high school students and their families took part in the surfing tradition of paddling out to honor someone. In this case they were honoring George Floyd, and others who suffered from violence and racism. They wanted to make sure their message was heard in this community.  

“In Palos Verdes I don’t know the whole demographic, but I wouldn’t say it’s too diverse at really,” said Williams.

Many of the participants said they were happy for the opportunity. Palos Verdes resident Makena Fine said it was important for her to be here.  

“I think it’s really important to realize that black lives do matter and this is a really peaceful way to show it and bring people together,” said Fine.

Stapleton says he was overwhelmed by the support they received.

“In a time when there’s a lot of hate and anger in the world to bring that sense of positivity and love to this community has been a blessing and I’m really proud to be a part of it,” said Stapleton.

They raised $1,000 for NAACP Legal Defense Fund and in the process, they brought people together for healing, dialogue, and friendship. In an emotional speech Williams tearfully addressed the crowd.

“I just want to thank everyone for coming out here,” Williams said.