Sheryl Lee Ralph And Tabitha Brown Fight Menstrual Stigma With New Film, ‘Me Period’

The Black Women’s Health Imperative (BWHI) proudly announces the release of “Me Period,” a groundbreaking documentary aimed at destigmatizing menstruation and fostering intergenerational discussions on puberty, menstruation, and health discovery.

Emmy-winning actresses Sheryl Lee Ralph and Tabitha Brown, along with their daughters Ivy “Coco” Maurice and Choice Brown, lend their voices and personal stories to this critical film.

“Me Period” draws inspiration from the influential 1987 documentary “Becoming A Woman,” created by BWHI founder Byllye Avery.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Lisa Cunningham, the film delves into the complexities and taboos surrounding the menstrual journey, presenting candid conversations between families and highlighting the experiences of Black women.

BWHI President and executive producer Linda Goler Blount emphasizes the film’s importance in addressing health equity and promoting a better understanding of Black women’s unique health experiences.

“Menstruation is a pivotal and transformative process, 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,” Blount explains, according to a sponsored press release. “This is precisely why ‘Me Period’ is crucial—it begins to unpack this long overdue conversation while also leaving the viewers empowered.”

The documentary also tackles the issue of menstrual equity, shedding light on the difficult choices some mothers face between purchasing menstrual products, often deemed luxury goods in some states, and buying family essentials.

It also explores stories of assault and generational trauma, providing a comprehensive look at the menstrual experience.

“Me Period” has been accepted into several prestigious film festivals, including the Black Girls Rock! Film Fest, Essence Film Festival, and Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival.

The documentary aims to normalize and embrace discussions about bodies, puberty, and menstruation, offering a platform for the next generation of Black women to navigate these topics with confidence and support.

information on “Me Period,” including the trailer and a menstrual health toolkit, visit MePeriod.info. For press inquiries, contact Joe Wiggins at joewiggins250@gmail.com.

Founded as the oldest non-profit solely dedicated to the health and wellness of Black women and girls, BWHI has grown into a nationally recognized organization leading in health policy, education, research, and communications, all aimed at improving health outcomes for Black women.