James Varick

James Varick was a prominent African American religious leader, born in 1790. He was the first bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, founded to support and empower Black Christians during a time of widespread racial discrimination. Varick played a key role in growing the church, promoting education, and advocating for social justice. His leadership helped create a strong spiritual and community foundation for African Americans and contributed significantly to the broader struggle for civil rights and equality.