A new documentary called “Aftershock” addresses the death rates of Black women during childbirth. The powerful film follows the journey of two families who have lost their loved ones during childbirth and become activists for the maternal health space for Black women.
In October 2019, 30-year-old Shamony Gibson died thirteen days after her son’s death. Two months later, filmmakers Tonya Lewis Lee and Paula Eiselt began filming Gibson’s surviving mother and partner. Viewers see how Shawnee Benton Gibson and Omari Maynard earn a new normal. Unfortunately, less than a year later, viewers meet the family of 26-year-old Amber Rose Isaac. She died from an emergency c-section, and Omari reaches out to her surviving partner, Bruce McIntyre. Omari forms a lifelong bond with Bruce as they fight for justice for their partners. They have their community’s support the entire step of the way during the process.
Throughout the “Aftershock,” the two families seek justice through legislation, medical accountability, community, and the power of art. During their journey, we meet a growing brotherhood of surviving Black fathers and the work of midwives and doctors fighting for institutional reform.
Check Out “Aftershock” Trailer Below:
“Aftershock” is now streaming on HULU.
