The African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church is one of the oldest Black denominations in the United States. It was founded in 1816 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by Richard Allen, a former slave who became a prominent abolitionist and religious leader. The AME Church was established in response to the segregation and discrimination experienced by Black worshipers in predominantly White churches at the time.

The AME Church played a significant role in the abolitionist movement and the fight for civil rights. It provided a platform for Black voices to speak out against slavery and inequality, and many of its members were actively involved in the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved individuals escape to freedom.

Throughout its history, the AME Church has been at the forefront of the struggle for racial justice and equality. Its leaders, such as Bishop Daniel Alexander Payne and Bishop William T. Vernon, were influential figures in the fight against segregation and discrimination. The church also played a key role in organizing and supporting civil rights campaigns, including the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

Today, the AME Church continues to be a powerful force for social change and empowerment within the Black community. It maintains a strong commitment to education, economic empowerment, and community development, while also advocating for racial equality and social justice. The AME Church remains a vital institution in the ongoing struggle for a more just and equitable society.