Rockland library to screen documentary ‘Black Snow’
Rockland Library to Screen “Black Snow” – A Deep‑Dive into a Siberian Mine Disaster
Thursday, June 18 – 6:00 p.m.
Rockland Public Library, 80 Union St.
The Rockland Public Library will host a free evening screening of the documentary Black Snow, presented in partnership with POV by PBS. The film follows the story of Natalia Zubkova, a former homemaker who turned to journalism after discovering a hidden fire in an abandoned coal mine that was poisoning the homes of a remote Siberian town.
A Story of Courage and Cover‑Up
Zubkova’s investigation began when she noticed smoke and strange odors seeping through the walls of her neighbors’ houses. She began photographing and recording the scene, eventually turning her findings into a series of reports that quickly spread online. The viral reach of her work prompted a swift response from local government officials, who launched a campaign to suppress the story and silence the whistle‑blower. The documentary captures the tension between Zubkova and the authorities as she navigates threats to her safety and the broader implications of unchecked industrial negligence.
Behind the Lens
The film is directed by Alina Simone, a seasoned journalist whose work has appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Guardian Long Read, California Sunday, Slate, and NPR. Simone was awarded a Logan Foundation Non‑Fiction Fellowship, an Andrew Berends Film Fellowship, and a 2021 NYSCA/NYFA Artist Fellowship in video/film.
Producer Kirstine Barfod is an award‑winning filmmaker who has produced feature documentaries such as Ibrahim, The Magic Life of V, and Reunited. Barfod has been a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences since 2019.
Event Details
- Time: 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 18
- Location: Rockland Public Library, 80 Union St.
- Cost: Free for all patrons
- Collaboration: POV by PBS
For further information or to confirm attendance, contact the library at [email protected].
The event is sponsored by Bowdoin College, which supports community outreach and public education initiatives.
About the Documentary
Black Snow offers an intimate look at the dangers of abandoned mining operations in remote regions and the challenges faced by those who dare to expose environmental hazards. Through Zubkova’s lens, viewers witness the intersection of personal bravery and governmental obstruction, shedding light on a crisis that reverberates far beyond the borders of Siberia.
The screening promises an engaging discussion opportunity for local residents, environmental advocates, and anyone interested in investigative journalism and global public health. The library’s open‑airroom will be available for a brief Q&A after the film, allowing attendees to ask questions of the filmmakers and share their reflections.
Community Invitation
The Rockland Public Library encourages all community members to attend this free cultural event. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a journalist, or simply curious about environmental justice, Black Snow offers a powerful narrative that invites conversation and reflection.
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