Meaning: The quote you've provided is a powerful statement made by Richard Allen, a prominent African American leader and the founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Richard Allen was a significant figure in early American history, known for his efforts in advocating for the rights of African Americans and working towards the abolition of slavery. The quote speaks to the collective identity and shared experiences of African Americans, emphasizing a sense of unity and solidarity in the face of adversity.

In this quote, Richard Allen is addressing the idea that African Americans, who have been born and raised in the United States and share common customs and traditions with other Americans, cannot simply accept the "redress" or compensation offered by a particular society to address the suffering and oppression experienced by their community. The term "redress" typically refers to the act of setting right an unfair situation or compensating for a wrong that has been done. In this context, it likely refers to attempts to address the historical injustices and systemic discrimination faced by African Americans.

By stating that "we, whose habits, manners, and customs are the same in common with other Americans, can never consent to be the bearers of the redress offered by that Society," Allen is rejecting the notion that African Americans should passively accept the charity or remedial efforts of others to address their plight. He is asserting that African Americans should not be seen as mere recipients of aid or assistance, but rather as active agents in the struggle for justice and equality. This sentiment reflects a desire for self-determination and a refusal to be relegated to a position of dependence or inferiority.

Richard Allen's reference to being "the bearers of the redress" implies a burden or responsibility that is being placed on the African American community, suggesting that they are expected to carry the weight of their own redress or restitution. This may be seen as a critique of attempts to address racial injustice that place the onus on the oppressed group to resolve their own suffering, rather than addressing the root causes of inequality and discrimination.

The phrase "to that much afflicted" underscores the profound suffering and hardship experienced by African Americans throughout history. It conveys a sense of deep empathy and understanding of the immense challenges faced by the African American community, acknowledging their enduring resilience in the face of adversity.

As a public servant and religious leader, Richard Allen was deeply committed to advancing the rights and dignity of African Americans. His words in this quote reflect a spirit of self-empowerment, resilience, and a refusal to accept a subordinate role in the quest for justice. It is a call to action for African Americans to assert their own agency and demand true equality, rather than passively accepting inadequate remedies offered by others.

In summary, Richard Allen's quote encapsulates a powerful assertion of the collective identity and agency of African Americans, rejecting the notion of passive acceptance of charity and emphasizing the need for genuine redress and empowerment. It serves as a reminder of the enduring struggle for equality and justice, and the determination of a community to shape its own destiny.