Behind The Joy Screening

Event Overview

On Saturday, October 11, 2025, York College will host a meaningful afternoon centered on storytelling, awareness, and community connection with a special Double Screening of Behind The Joy, proudly sponsored by Northwell Long Island Jewish Forest Hills.

Behind The Joy is an international award-winning film written and directed by Jamal Smart. The film tells the powerful story of a family navigating the unspoken struggles of postpartum depression—a reality that affects 1 in 5 birthing people yet is too often overlooked, especially in minority communities. With raw emotion and honest storytelling, the movie shines a light on the silent battles many families face, while challenging the stigma surrounding maternal mental health.

Since its premiere, Behind The Joy has sparked conversations at film festivals, community gatherings, and healthcare events, bridging the gap between art and advocacy. The film has become a tool for dialogue, inviting audiences to not only witness the story but also reflect on how we, as a community, can better support parents during one of the most vulnerable times of their lives.

This York College screening is designed to give attendees multiple opportunities to engage with the film. Whether you join the 1:30 PM screening or the 3:30 PM screening, or stay for both, the day is meant to inspire reflection, conversation, and awareness. Doors will open at 12:00 PM, allowing time for networking and connection with community members and partners before the first screening begins. The event will close at 5:30 PM, leaving participants with both insight and inspiration to carry forward.

Live Panel Session: Beyond Birth – Redefining Postpartum Support in the Black Community

This engaging panel brings together leading voices in maternal health to explore how we can break the stigma around postpartum experiences, expand access to critical resources, and center culturally sensitive care for Black families.

Moderated by Patricia Robinson, the discussion will feature doulas, nurses, and advocates who are committed to creating supportive, equitable, and empowering care from birth through the postpartum journey. Together, they will share personal insights, professional expertise, and actionable strategies to ensure every family feels seen, heard, and supported.

Event Schedule:

• 12:00 PM – Doors Open / Community Networking
• 12:45 PM - Welcome & Panel Discussion #1
• 1:30 PM – First Screening of Behind The Joy
• 2:50 PM - Resource Break / Networking
• 3:30 PM – Second Screening of Behind The Joy
• 4:50 PM - Panel Discussion #2 & Closing Remarks
• 5:30 PM – Event Ends

This is more than a movie—it is an opportunity to come together, raise awareness, and amplify voices that are too often unheard. Be part of this important experience and join us in York College’s commitment, alongside Northwell Long Island Jewish Forest Hills, to shine a light on maternal mental health.

Reserve your seat today and stand with us in creating change through storytelling, dialogue, and community.