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The Omaha Checkup is a collaborative film series presented by the College of Public Health and Film Streams. Through free, thought-provoking screenings and community dialogue, the series examines the forces that shape public health both locally and globally. The Omaha Checkup invites audiences to explore how history, policy, and identity intersect with health and well-being. Each screening is followed by a panel discussion or conversation with local experts, advocates, and community members, fostering deeper understanding and action around the most pressing health issues of our time.
In October 2019, 30-year-old Shamony Gibson tragically died 13 days following the birth of her son. Two months later, the film team began documenting Shamony's surviving mother, Shawnee Benton Gibson, and bereaved partner, Omari Maynard, as they began to process what happened and figure out their new normal.
In April 2020, 26-year-old Amber Rose Isaac, died due to an emergency c-section. Within weeks of Amber's death, Omari reaches out to Amber's surviving partner Bruce McIntyre and a lifelong bond is formed. Together, Omari and Bruce begin the fight for justice for their partners with their families and community by their side, while caring for their children as newly single parents.
The film witness these two families become ardent activists in the maternal health space, seeking justice through legislation, medical accountability, community, and the power of art. Their work introduces a myriad of people including a growing brotherhood of surviving Black fathers, along with the work of midwives and physicians on the ground fighting for institutional reform. Through their collective journeys, the film brings us to the front lines of the growing birth justice movement that is demanding systemic change within our medical system and government.
Reviews
"Aftershock’s greatest achievement is its refusal to peddle in hopelessness. Solutions do exist... The film ends with a powerful reminder that if Black lives matter then Black wombs must matter, too." – The Hollywood Reporter
As part of our See Change initiative, we strive to showcase the work of women and non-binary individuals and their behind-the-scenes involvement in a production.
This film is directed and produced by Paula Eiselt and Tonya Lewis Lee, edited by Flavia de Souza and Sunita Prasad, with music by Chanda Dancy, and features cinematography by Jenni Morello.
