Fundraiser for the Pike River Mine families

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Fundraiser for the Pike River Mine families

The methane explosion at the Pike River Mine has left many people affected — both the workers still underground, and their families anxiously waiting in despair. Beyond Resistance invites you to a film screening of 'Harlan County USA', where we hope to raise some funds and show our support for the families of the 29 missing miners.

WHEN: Wednesday December 1st, 7PM WHERE: Workers Educational Association (WEA). 59 Gloucester Street (opposite the City Art Gallery). ENTRY: recommended $5 donation (all funds raised will go to the affected families).

Harlan County USA is a classic piece of documentary making: passionate, intense, gripping and absorbing. Barbara Kopple’s documentary unflinchingly documents a gruelling yet inspiring coal miners’ strike in a small Kentucky town in the 1970s. She lived in the mining community, and tells their story in their own words.

The bitter 13 month strike occurred between a very deprived community fighting to survive and a ruthless and powerful coal mining company determined to preserve its profits. It shows how the company attempted to break the strike through using local police, and hiring slimy armed thugs and scabs. It shows how the strikers kept the strike going, how they attempted to blockade scab labour from entering the mine, how women played an absolutely crucial role in supporting the strike, and how they sought support from other communities and workers.

Viewers will get a sense of what coal mining is like, the conditions in which miners have to face every day, and why the issues of health and safety are paramount.

This is an open event, and children are welcome. Tea and nibbles will be provided.

Show your support in this dark time.

BEYOND RESISTANCE

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