Afterbirth: Understanding Postpartum Depression
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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The short documentary "Afterbirth" will be screened at the Berkshire Athenaeum, followed by a panel discussion with experts in the field.
"Afterbirth" was created by members of the local Latinx and immigrant community through Katunemo, an arts collective based in the Berkshires. The film is a 20-minute documentary that shares real stories from women navigating postpartum depression—often in silence, isolation, and without access to culturally relevant support.
Katunemo is known for using art as a tool to explore experiences that are often left unspoken, creating spaces for healing, reflection, and community dialogue. Through projects like Afterbirth, the collective continues its mission of amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering connection through storytelling and creative expression, stated a press release.
The documentary, created by Xara Romero and produced by David Melchor and Laura Squires, with language access support by Maria Elisa Fuller through Language Justice Solutions, sheds light on the emotional complexity of motherhood and challenges the stigma surrounding maternal mental health, particularly within immigrant communities. The project emerged organically from a community conversation, growing into a collaborative effort committed to building awareness and empathy.
Following the screening, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a meaningful conversation with a panel of specialists, including:
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Alexis Smith, certified by DONA International, offering pregnancy and birth support.
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Claudia M. Gold, MD, a pediatrician, author, and infant-parent mental health specialist.
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Danielle Shumway, a licensed clinical social worker and therapist specializes in perinatal and postpartum mental health, including anxiety, depression, and OCD.
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Denise Sortino, LICSW, a licensed independent clinical social worker and trauma-informed therapist specializing in complex PTSD and perinatal mental health.
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Eleanore Velez, Volunteer Manager, Volunteers in Medicine.
The panel will explore themes of maternal mental health, cultural barriers, access to care, and community-based support systems, creating space for dialogue, reflection, and connection.
This free public event aims not only to raise awareness but also to create a safe and supportive environment for individuals and families to engage in conversations that are often overlooked or stigmatized. This program has been made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Berkshire Athenaeum, Volunteers in Medicine Berkshires, CTSB Community Television for the Southern Berkshires, and Somos Berkshires.
Event Details
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Event: Afterbirth Documentary Screening & Panel Discussion
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Date: May 4, 2026
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Time: 6:30 PM
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Location: Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield, MA
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Duration: Approximately 20 minutes (film) + panel discussion
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Admission: Free and open to the public
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Interpretation: Spanish and English available
