Pittsburgh “Blue Vinyl,” Conversation with Filmmaker Judith Helfand

In a national exclusive, join filmmaker Judith Helfand for a screening of her award-winning film “Blue Vinyl” followed by a discussion of the East Palestine train derailment with experts on the ground. Vinyl chloride, the subject of Helfand’s 2002 “toxicomedy,” is the substance that was burned by Norfolk Southern in East Palestine, Ohio, dousing the region in dioxins and upending the lives of residents. It’s Art, Awareness and Action: Pittsburgh and Southwestern Pa. residents have the power to make sure a vinyl chloride train disaster like this does not happen again. Registration includes free admission to the Carnegie Museum of Art and the Everlasting Plastics exhibit which relates to “Blue Vinyl,” plus free access to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History.

Directed by Daniel B. Gold & Judith Helfand
Winner: Sundance Film Festival; Emmy Award*Suitable for ages high school and older

Plot summary: Turned off by her parents’ decision to put vinyl siding on their small Long Island house, director Judith Helfand takes viewers on her 5-year adventure across the United States and to Europe to get the back story on vinyl. Watch the Trailer

Why are we watching this film now?
The U.S. EPA is going to consider vinyl chloride through the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) this summer. Vinyl Chloride was the substance that was set on fire in the East Palestine, Ohio train derailment. Residents of Pittsburgh & Southwestern Pa. have a the power to ensure a catastrophe like the derailment never happens again and prevent it from happening in Pittsburgh. Join us for a discussion with filmmaker Judith Helfand and local experts who have been on the ground in East Palestine.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Carnegie Museum of Art, 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, United States