Kwanzaa Kutoa Celebrates Unity And Giving Back

By Williamena Kwapo | OBSERVER Staff Writer Assaita Morgan, longtime member of Safe Black Space, stands in front of the Mishumaa Saba. Morgan is among the members who spearheads Kwanzaa Katuo. Seth Patterson, OBSERVER As many embrace the spirit of gifting and receiving, one organization stands out for embodying the true essence of community during the holiday season. Safe Black Space, a local organization dedicated to the mental health of Black people, prepares for its fourth annual Kwanzaa celebration, a unique gifting ceremony designed to uplift families in need while embracing the holiday’s principles. Dr. Kristee Haggins is a mental health professional and executive director of Safe Black Space. Driven by a passion for social justice and a commitment to dismantling systemic barriers, Dr. Haggins and her team at Safe Black Space embarked on a mission to create inclusive and accessible services. To include the community in celebrating Kwanzaa, Safe Black Space organizes Kwanzaa “Kutoa” – a Swahili word that means “to give.” Community members are asked to nominate families who may be in need and that exemplifies one the seven principles of Kwanzaa, known as Nguzo Saba. RELATED: When a Black Woman Speaks: A Brunch Event Celebrating Sisterhood This...