Film narrated by Viola Davis to be followed by a discussion featuring national advocates, filmmakers and community leaders

BENTONVILLE, Ark. – June 17, 2026 – The Bentonville Film Festival, in partnership with Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies America and Walmart, will host a screening of “The Ebony Canal,” an internationally recognized documentary that recently won multiple awards at the Cannes World Film Festival, including Best Documentary and Best Director.

Narrated by Academy Award winner Viola Davis, the 31-minute film explores the disproportionate impact of maternal and infant mortality on Black and Brown families, weaving together powerful stories of healing, resilience and hope while highlighting solutions that can improve outcomes for mothers and babies nationwide.

The screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring nationally recognized maternal health advocates, filmmakers and community leaders.

WHAT: Screening of “The Ebony Canal” followed by a panel discussion on maternal health and infant

health disparities

WHEN: Friday, June 19, Noon – 1:30 p.m. 

WHERE: Skylight Cinema, Rooms 1 and 2

 350 SW A St., Bentonville, AR 72712

WHO: Immediately following the screening, from around 12:40 to 1:30 p.m., attendees will hear from a distinguished panel of speakers, including:

• Emmai Alaquiva, director of “The Ebony Canal” and an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker whose latest documentary recently received multiple honors at the Cannes World Film Festival. His work focuses on elevating underrepresented voices and addressing critical social issues.
• Gabby Albert, executive director of 4Kira4Moms, where she leads national efforts to advance maternal health equity through advocacy, education and partnerships. She works with policymakers, health systems and community organizations to drive systemic change.
• Charles Johnson, founder of 4Kira4Moms, a national maternal health advocacy organization established after the preventable death of Johnson’s wife, Kira Dixon Johnson, following the birth of their second child. Johnson has become one of the nation’s leading voices for maternal health awareness, accountability and policy change.
• Larissa Lane, a mother featured in “The Ebony Canal” whose personal story reflects the challenges and resilience experienced by many families navigating the healthcare system. She brings a firsthand perspective to the conversation about improving care and outcomes.
• Tony Waller, vice president of constituent relations at Walmart and a leader in the company’s community engagement efforts. Walmart is a presenting sponsor of “The Ebony Canal” and has supported initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes and strengthening communities.

The screening and discussion are open to the public. Tickets are available here.