The Black Women’s Health Imperative (BWHI) is advancing the dialogue on Black women’s health with the announcement of their latest documentary, Me Period. This film explores the vital and often overlooked discussions surrounding puberty, menstruation, and health discovery within Black families.

Me Period features deeply personal conversations between families of all types, showcasing the multifaceted experiences of Black women and girls. The film includes insights and stories from Emmy-award winners, Sheryl Lee Ralph and Tabitha Brown, alongside their daughters, Ivy Coco Maurice and Choyce Brown. These intergenerational discussions shed light on the shared and unique challenges faced by Black women as they navigate the complexities of their menstrual journeys.

Inspired by BWHI founder Byllye Avery’s 1987 documentary Becoming A Woman, Me Period explores the stories of families tackling the taboos and misconceptions surrounding menstruation. Under the expert direction of award-winning filmmaker Lisa Cunningham, the documentary aims to raise awareness, challenge societal norms, and provide essential resources for Black families.

Linda Goler Blount, the executive producer of Me Period and President of BWHI, sees this film as the culmination of her lifelong dedication to health equity and promoting understanding of Black women’s unique health experiences. “Menstruation is a pivotal and transformative process,” Blount explains, “but within Black and Brown families, societal stigma, barriers to care, and harmful messages about our bodies can hinder our ability to navigate this journey confidently and effectively. Me Period begins to unpack this long overdue conversation while also leaving viewers empowered.”

The documentary goes beyond personal stories, addressing critical issues such as menstrual equity. It highlights the difficult choices some mothers face between purchasing menstrual products, often deemed luxury goods in some states, and providing family essentials. It also delves into the gut-wrenching stories of assault and generational trauma, underscoring the need for greater support and resources for Black women and girls.

Me Period has already garnered significant recognition, having been accepted into the Black Girls Rock! Film Fest, Essence Film Festival, and Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival. The film’s acceptance into these prestigious festivals underscores its importance in normalizing and embracing the complex dynamics of discussing bodies, puberty, and menstruation with the next generation of Black women.

As the oldest non-profit organization solely dedicated to the health and wellness of Black women and girls, BWHI continues to lead in health policy, education, research, and communications to improve health outcomes for Black women. With Me Period, BWHI is not only fostering crucial conversations but also paving the way for a more informed and empowered future for Black families.

For more information about the Black Women’s Health Imperative, visit their website at BWHI.org.