Often, the interior of a building of this kind was converted to ecclesiastical use simply by putting in chairs, pews, and a makeshift
pulpit. Like other churches, it may serve as a social and religious hub for an
ethnic enclave. Many storefronts emerged in the urban centers of the
Northern United States in the late 19th century and were filled with poor former
slaves leaving their former lives behind. Today, many storefront churches are both religious houses of worship and centers of
social development and
free speech in many poor African American communities to express their feelings about the struggles and hardships they face every day in their lives, as well as churches for them to come together and worship and fellowship in. They also can provide a focal point for community unity and
engagement. Storefront churches may still be found throughout the
United States, among
White and Latino neighborhoods as well as African American ones. ==Examples==