The African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church is one of the oldest and most significant Black institutions in the United States. Established in 1816 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the AME Church was founded by Richard Allen, a former slave, and other Black leaders who sought to create a church where African Americans could worship freely without discrimination.

The AME Church played a key role in the abolitionist movement and the fight for civil rights. Richard Allen and other AME members were active in the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved individuals escape to freedom. The church also provided a platform for Black leaders to organize and advocate for social justice, including Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth.

Throughout its history, the AME Church has been a pillar of the Black community, providing spiritual guidance, educational opportunities, and social services. Today, the AME Church continues to be a prominent force in the fight for racial equality and social justice, both in the United States and around the world.