Honoring Black History Month at Uhuru

By Reily Morris

Uhuru’s Mission
As a Kent State student, Uhuru has had a greater impact on me than any other student organization. I joined a legacy that began long before I set foot on campus and will continue long after I graduate. 

Established in 1989 as a media extension of Black United Students, Uhuru provides Black students with a space to speak openly about their social and political realities. Being part of an organization with nearly 40 years of history has been both grounding and empowering.

During the past two semesters, I served on Uhuru’s executive board as lead stylist. In this role, I create visuals and designs while integrating culture, identity and Black student empowerment. 

Uhuru aims to reestablish the magazine and student organization as a cultural staple at Kent State. Rooted in its history, Uhuru has been reinvented to represent today’s students. 

My involvement in reinventing Uhuru has strengthened my connection to the campus community and deepened my pride in its history.

Advocating for Black Voices
Community connection is particularly meaningful during Black History Month. 
Black students and educators at Kent State played a key role in expanding Black History Week into Black History Month. That effort reinforces how student voices have long shaped the university, even when they were challenged or overlooked.

As a predominantly white institution, Kent State benefits from media organizations like Uhuru. 

The organization provides Black students a place to feel seen, heard and understood without needing to explain their experiences. It also encourages multicultural understanding by sharing Black perspectives, creativity, and experiences with the broader campus community. 
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I am proud to contribute to Uhuru’s legacy and its mission to fight for freedom, resilience and student-led community improvement at Kent State.