Introduction
In times of hardship, the power of community has always been a guiding light. Whether it's the strength found in family gatherings, church congregations, or neighborhood circles, Black communities have long leaned on each other for support. This tradition of collective care-a communal approach to healing-offers a counter-narrative to the isolation that modern society often promotes. Programs like Omora Healing's Kumwe Circle draw upon this legacy, providing a structured environment where Black women can come together, heal, and grow, supported by Afro-positive principles and practices.
Understanding Collective Care Collective care involves communal support that values the well-being of all members, extending beyond the individualistic approaches often seen in Western society. This approach is deeply embedded in African diasporic cultures. Research highlights that collective care "can act as a protective factor" against the impacts of racism, trauma, and socio-economic stressors by "building solidarity, resilience, and a shared sense of belonging" (Bryant-Davis & Ocampo, 2005). Collective care can be seen as a foundational aspect of Black wellness, where people come together to uplift one another.
Omora Healing's Kumwe Circle-"Kumwe" meaning "together" in Kinyarwanda-builds on this concept by providing Black women with a supportive, Afro-positive space. Here, they can share their stories, access cultural tools for healing, and connect with others on a similar journey. Kumwe, therefore, is more than just a program; it's a reflection of the rich history of Black communities that prioritize care and connection (Ndejuru, 2024).
In Kumwe, Care is Relational In Kumwe, care is deeply relational, grounded in the philosophy of Kuba - Kubaho - Kubana-to be, to be here/now, to be with. This approach recognizes that well-being is not achieved in isolation but through ongoing, meaningful connections to oneself, others, and the world. In this culturally rooted space, participants are invited to explore and redefine their identities and experiences through storying and restorying. Kumwe encourages each individual to honor their unique journey while resonating with the shared experiences of the community, fostering a dynamic understanding of what it means to "be" in the world.
Why Community Matters in Healing Why does community make such a difference? Research indicates that collective care fosters a sense of belonging and safety, especially in the face of trauma or systemic oppression. When healing happens in a group setting, individuals "develop shared narratives that make sense of their experiences" (Hooks, 2003). In Kumwe, members can unpack their experiences of racial trauma, body shame, and interpersonal challenges within a circle of trust, lessening the isolation often associated with these issues.
Programs like Kumwe offer specific practices and activities-such as "Recipes for Being" and "Curating Sacred Ingredients"-that help participants explore their identity and personal journey in culturally meaningful ways. These activities not only promote healing but also build solidarity, which researchers have shown to be an important buffer against trauma and stress (Cohen & Wills, 1985).
Practical Steps to Engage in Collective Care Integrating collective care into one's life doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some practical ways to get started, inspired by practices within the Kumwe Circle: 1. Establish a Regular Check-In: Whether it's a call with a friend or a gathering with a small group, commit to regular, meaningful conversations about life's challenges and joys. 2. Create Everyday Rituals: Pay attention to the places and spaces you move through, the objects you see and come into contact with, and the moments and times that feel different or special. Learn to connect to what feels sacred to you, and let these rituals ground you in both self and community care. 3. Build a Network of Support: Seek out or create spaces where you can share openly, whether that's through community groups, online forums, or healing programs like Kumwe. 4. Explore and Share Afro-positive Practices: In Kumwe, members engage in practices that center their voices, challenges, experiences, and aspirations. Exploring Afropositive ideas like Kuba (to be), Kubaho (to be here/now), and Kubana (to be with) can be powerful ways to situate oneself, think with intention, and feel grounded and empowered.
The Future of Collective Care in Black Healing The future of Black healing lies in embracing community-based models like Kumwe that honor cultural legacies and collective strength. In the words of bell hooks, "Rarely, if ever, are any of us healed in isolation. Healing is an act of communion" (hooks, 2000). By fostering a space that prioritizes community, Omora Healing and Kumwe Circle are not only addressing the current needs of Black women but also revitalizing a timeless approach to wellness that is both resilient and deeply rooted.
Kumwe offers a reminder: We heal together. By embracing collective care, Black communities can continue to grow, nurture, and transform, cultivating the strength to face life's challenges with resilience and solidarity.
References:
- Bryant-Davis, T., & Ocampo, C. (2005). The Trauma of Racism: Implications for Counseling, Research, and Education. The Counseling Psychologist, 33(4), 574-578.
- Cohen, S., & Wills, T. A. (1985). Stress, Social Support, and the Buffering Hypothesis. Psychological Bulletin, 98(2), 310-357.
- hooks, b. (2003). Teaching Community: A Pedagogy of Hope. Routledge.
- hooks, b. (2000). All About Love: New Visions. William Morrow.
- Mbiti, J. S. (1990). African Religions and Philosophy. Heinemann Educational Books.
- Thomas, A. J., Speight, S. L., & Witherspoon, K. M. (2021). Black Community Psychology: A Liberation Psychology Approach. Journal of Black Psychology, 47(5), 344-368.
- Ndejuru, L. (2024). Program outline for Kumwe Circle, Omora Healing. Omora Healing.
Lisa Ndejuru
