Answer: C. leading a religious gathering.
Explanation: During slavery and the era of segregation, laws were enacted to control and restrict the activities of Black individuals. While Jamestown, Virginia was founded in 1607, slaves were first brought to the colony in 1619. Shortly after, laws were quickly enacted restricting their freedom and rights.
These laws became more restrictive and cruel especially the Virginia Slave Codes of 1705 when the Virginia General Assembly enacted harsh punishments for any violations including maiming, branding, or whipping.
One of these laws included forbidding Black people, whether free or enslaved, from leading religious gatherings. This restriction aimed to limit the formation of independent religious communities and maintain control over the enslaved population.