Women's International Film Festival

Woman in Media – Newark (WIM-N) proudly announces the 17th Annual Women's International Film Festival (WIFF), taking place July 30–31 and August 1 and 6, 2026, with virtual screenings on August 7, 2026. The festival will showcase powerful independent films from around the world that illuminate the experiences of women and explore themes of justice, identity, resilience, environmental stewardship, and social change.

For seventeen years, the Women's International Film Festival has provided a platform for emerging and established filmmakers whose work amplifies women's voices and inspires meaningful dialogue. Through compelling storytelling, the festival brings together filmmakers, advocates, artists, students, and community members to examine issues that shape our world while celebrating the creativity and leadership of women.

Among this year's festival highlights are three acclaimed feature documentaries:

• The Delivery Line: Midwives on the Frontline, directed by Nance Ackerman, chronicles the extraordinary courage of Ukrainian midwives who continue delivering babies while navigating the realities of war. The film is a moving testament to resilience, compassion, and the unwavering commitment of healthcare workers on the front lines.
• The Bengali, directed by Kavery Kaul, is a deeply personal exploration of identity, migration, and belonging. The Bengali tells the untold story of ties between South Asians and African-Americans in the U.S. In the late nineteenth-century, men from India arrived in the United States and married African-American women. The men were Muslims; the women were Christian. Together, they built families in an America that held them all at arm’s length.
• A Beast Touch the Mountain: Mountain Valley Pipeline and the Fight for Appalachia examines the ongoing struggle of Appalachian communities to protect their land, water, and way of life, highlighting the determination of local women activists confronting one of the nation's most controversial energy projects.

These films exemplify the festival's commitment to presenting stories that challenge audiences, foster empathy, and encourage dialogue about the issues affecting communities around the world.

As part of the festival, Woman in Media – Newark will also honor five extraordinary women whose leadership and service have made a lasting impact on their professions and communities. The 2026 Trailblazing Women are: Desiree Hadley, Newark Mayor’s Office of Film and Television; Rev. Eyesha Marable, Assistant Vice President of Community Engagement at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center; Elizabeth Parchment, New Jersey Motion Picture & Television Commission; Theresa Perry Lewis, Educator, producer/director; Diane Raver, founder, Garden State Film Festival.Each honoree embodies the spirit of courage, innovation, and service that the Women's International Film Festival seeks to celebrate.

"Our festival is about more than film," said Pamela Morgan, Executive Director of Woman in Media – Newark. "It is about creating a space where stories can build understanding, inspire action, and connect communities across cultures. We are equally proud to recognize this year's Trailblazing Women, whose leadership continues to strengthen our communities and inspire future generations."

Since its founding, the Women's International Film Festival has remained committed to making independent cinema accessible to everyone. Festival events are designed to encourage community participation, elevate underrepresented voices, and celebrate the transformative power of storytelling. Admission is free and open to the public, reflecting Woman in Media – Newark's commitment to ensuring that these important stories are available to all.

For the complete festival schedule, film descriptions, honoree information, and registration, visit: https://bit.ly/wiff2026

About Woman in Media – Newark

Woman in Media – Newark is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating, empowering, and advocating for women through film, media, and the arts. Through the Women's International Film Festival and year-round programming, the organization supports independent filmmakers, promotes civic dialogue, and recognizes women whose work advances equity, creativity, and positive social change.