"Before the Mountain Was Moved"

In 1969, after serving 46 years as a coal miner, Elias Bailey stood in the state Capitol in Charleston, West Virginia, to testify before a hearing on the ravages of strip-mining. Stricken by black lung disease, Bailey declared: “I’m just a broke down miner now,” whose tiny cattle farm and streams had been destroyed by strippers. 

The documentary follows Elias from his mountain home, to the town general store where he has an encounter with an obstinate coal boss, and onto the local community center for a gathering of mountain voices against mining. Then Elias and three others embark on an interesting car trip to Charleston, WV. that gives us a glimpse into the joining of two races for one cause.

All four end at the nation's capital worrying about testifying before the senate. Who will listen to poor folks they wonder. Their testimony is riveting and raw--the little people with the powerful voices make their stand for their mountains.

Bailey's story is still being written long after he met his maker.

Forty-two years later and the same fight is still going on-- many mountains have been blown up since Elias spoke out. 

No one listened. 

They're still not listening.

And more will follow thanks to Big Coal and the politicians they bankroll.

Fast forward forty years later--"On Coal River"

Educate yourself: Alabama coal mining Sourcewatch.org
                          Black Warrior Riverkeeper

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