According to recent statistics, persons of color make up an estimated 40 percent of missing people in the United States.  Of that 85 percent were black—far greater than their approximately 13 percent share of the U.S. population. Yet they were the subject of fewer than 23 percent of all news reports.

Today marks the release of a movie, “Woman Thou Art Loosed! On the 7th Day,” which has a tie-in with the effect of abduction on an African-American family. The film was produced by T.D. Jakes and distributed by Codeblack Entertainment.

“African Americans are unlikely to receive a national alert or to be featured in the media when their loved ones go missing,” said Bishop Jakes. “In an effort to bring awareness and help turn the tide on these daunting statistics, Codeblack Entertainment and The Potter’s House are helping to bring this issue to the forefront.”

“It is so important to educate our community on this issue, especially since an overwhelming number of missing persons in the United States are of color,” said Derrica Wilson, co-founder, Black and Missing Foundation, Inc.  

“Woman Thou Art Loosed! On the 7th Day” is a compelling story that unites love, suspense and faith into one heart-wrenching package. David (Blair Underwood) and Kari (Sharon Leal) Ames seem to have the perfect life until someone kidnaps their young daughter, and over the course of seven days they uncover secrets about their past that threaten to rip their lives apart. The film underscores the impact of secrets, lies, and deception on the featured characters.

Starring in the movie are Golden Globe® Nominee Blair Underwood (Madea's Family Reunion, Set It Off) and Sharon Leal (Why Did I Get Married Too? This Christmas). Also starring are Nicole Beharie (American Violet), Nicoye Banks (Law & Order), Emmy Award® Nominee Pam Grier (2012, The Man with the Iron Fists, Just Wright), Reed R. McCants (Civil Brand) and Jaqueline Fleming (2012, Contraband; HBO's Tremé).