Flashback to February 14

American History

1787

Philadelphia’s Free African Society forms

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On April 12, 1787, a groundbreaking event took place in Philadelphia that marked a significant step in African-American history – the formation of the Free African Society. This society, founded by Richard Allen and Absalom Jones, aimed to provide support, education, and aid to the growing African-American community in Philadelphia. Today, we look back at this pivotal moment and its lasting impact on the African-American community.

The Free African Society emerged during a time when African-Americans in Philadelphia were facing immense challenges and discrimination. Slavery was still widely practiced, and opportunities for education and advancement were scarce. In response to these adversities, Richard Allen and Absalom Jones, both former slaves, envisioned an organization that would empower their community and provide much-needed assistance.

The main objective of the Free African Society was to offer support to African-Americans in need. This encompassed a wide range of assistance, including financial aid, assistance for widows and orphans, and support for those who were sick or infirm. The society also sought to encourage self-reliance and economic independence among its members by promoting entrepreneurship and providing guidance for small businesses.

Education was another significant focus of the Free African Society. Recognizing the importance of knowledge and intellectual development in overcoming oppression, the society established a school for African-American children. This institution played a vital role in providing young African-Americans with an education that had otherwise been denied to them. It served as a stepping stone for future African-American leaders, who would go on to play essential roles in the fight for equality.

In addition to providing support and educational opportunities, the Free African Society also aimed to foster a sense of unity and community among its members. By organizing regular meetings, gatherings, and social events, the society offered a space for African-Americans to come together, share their experiences, and find solace amidst the challenges they faced. These gatherings also provided a platform for discussing and addressing the issues affecting their community, serving as a catalyst for future social and political activism.

The formation of the Free African Society had far-reaching consequences that extended beyond Philadelphia. It served as an inspiration for other African-American communities throughout the country struggling for freedom and equality. The society’s founders, Richard Allen and Absalom Jones, went on to become prominent African-American leaders and influential figures in the abolitionist movement.

Richard Allen, in particular, went on to establish the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, which played a crucial role in providing spiritual guidance and fostering a sense of empowerment among African-Americans. The AME Church became a sanctuary for African-Americans, where they could worship freely and find support within their own community.

The legacy of the Free African Society can still be felt today. Its emphasis on education, community building, and self-reliance laid the foundation for future African-American organizations and institutions. Through the efforts of the Free African Society, African-Americans in Philadelphia and beyond gained a voice, a sense of identity, and hope for a better future.

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