From the Ashes synopsis

California senator Kamala Harris was quoted in the April 2020 publication of Essence magazine, “We must speak the truth about America’s history of health disparities that existed long before the coronavirus pandemic, including the grave ongoing crisis of Black maternal mortality.” 

 From the Ashes is a multidisciplinary narrative of a single, low-socioeconomic status, black woman’s journey through depression to a spiritual rebirth. Through the use of photography, video sequences, sound design, dance and interactive panel-to-audience discussions, From the Ashes brings forth the gritty reality of gender inequity for women in their parenting roles that often leads to hopelessness, loss of self and potentially, loss of life. This reality spans across all racial groups in America, where the gap in poverty rates between men and women is wider than anywhere in the Western world.   

The narrative expressed in From the Ashes is especially relevant during this coronavirus pandemic.  Women who are pregnant, postpartum, miscarrying or experiencing intimate partner violence are at especially high risk of developing mental health problems during this pandemic.  This risk can be exacerbated and have a dangerously negative impact on the mental health of black mothers who face unique barriers.  The prevalence of racism within health care systems, compounded with COVID-19, put black woman at higher risk of experiencing postpartum depression (PPD) and postpartum anxiety. 

So, while this is a stressful time for any expectant mother, the potential ramifications that come with giving birth during a pandemic—and specifically a pandemic that is disproportionately impacting African-Americans—is of particular concern to Black women.

The purpose of this project is to bridge the gap between medical and maternal mental health care. Up to 10% of black women will experience depression or anxiety during pregnancy. Approximately 15% of all women will experience postpartum depression (PPD) following the birth of a child.  

Mental health is a universal concern to which we can all relate. From the Ashes film and community conversation focus on a woman from Oakland whose limited options make her situation that much more dire. Surviving life when you lack a formal higher education which limits job prospects and thus, access to health care. The burden of unaddressed postpartum depression causes her to sink deeper into her inner struggle to survive.  

From the Ashes uses artistic expression as a means to generate discussion on mental health and suicide. By bringing the “shameful” secret life of depression into light, From the Ashes seeks to help heal some of the trauma that has plagued generations of African-Americans.  By touring the film under the umbrella of a speaking tour with a panel of clinical professionals, we hope to help the community navigate crucial conversations, eliminate stigma and promote available resources.

This film and speaking tour is not only a timely expression and conversation, but will inspire many women that are suffering in silence across the globe.