The powerful story of Black motherhood, legacy, and healing continues to make waves on the national stage as it screens at the Urbanworld Film Festival in New York City, one of the world’s leading showcases for Black cinema and diverse storytelling.
The red carpet rolls out at Urbanworld Film Festival in New York City for the highly anticipated screening of The Ebony Canal, a transformative film narrated by EGOT winner Viola Davis and directed by 6x Emmy Award-winning director Emmai Alaquiva. This deeply moving project, executive produced by the August Wilson African American Cultural Center and the Richard King Mellon Foundation, uplifts the voices of Black mothers, families, and advocates whose stories reflect both the beauty and the challenges of the Black birthing experience in America.
The unforgettable evening of storytelling, conversation, and cultural celebration hosted by Ms. Tina Knowles– visionary philanthropist and mother of Beyoncé and Solange – will take place us on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Regal Theater in Union Square from 7–9 PM.
Featuring an All-Star Panel of Cultural Leaders
Following the screening, a live panel moderated by Grammy Award-winning artist Letoya Luckett will explore the intersections of Black maternal health, community, and representation in media.
The panel includes:
- Emmai Alaquiva, Director of The Ebony Canal
- Latham Thomas, Founder of Mama Glow
- Kimberly Seals Allers, Creator of IRTH App
- Charles Johnson, Founder of 4Kira4Moms
- Special remarks by Cori Murray, Ebony Magazine
Together, this group of trailblazers will discuss how The Ebony Canal amplifies the urgent conversation around Black maternal health equity, community healing, and the role of Black storytelling in cultural transformation.
A Landmark Moment for Black Film and Advocacy
Presented at Urbanworld Film Festival, one of the premier showcases for Black cinema and creators of color, The Ebony Canal continues a growing movement of films that illuminate the resilience, creativity, and voice of the African American experience.
This event unites artists, advocates, and changemakers in dialogue about representation, motherhood, and empowerment, reflecting the enduring power of storytelling to inspire systemic change.
Tickets are limited and going fast. Reserve your seat now.