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Ohio train derailment 1 year later: East Palestine to hold film festival as part of lineup of commemorative events Saturday

The East Palestine Environmental Film Festival is happening on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Main Street Theater in Columbiana. Tickets are free.

EAST PALESTINE, Ohio — Exactly one year after the Norfolk Southern toxic train derailment impacted the lives of thousands of residents in East Palestine and the surrounding area, the community will come together for a series of events inspired by the tragedy.

The East Palestine Environmental Film Festival plans to bring a fresh perspective -- not only to the derailment one year ago -- but to other issues across the nation. 

The festival aims to bring light to the devastating aftermath of the tragedy on Feb. 3, 2023, through films - 17 to be exact. Three of the films will highlight what took place in East Palestine. 

Organizers say it's a wonderful platform for filmmakers who want to showcase their environmental storytelling, while putting a spotlights on other challenges the world still faces today. 

Robert Corna, who coordinated the festival, says the movies will inspire people to want to help. 

"When people come to see these movies, they're gonna come out of the theater wanting to do something, whether it's to help East Palestine or back in their hometown to help an issue," Corna said. "But definitely, you won't be able to walk out of this film festival without being inspired by these movies."

The film festival is happening Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Main Street Theater in Columbiana. Tickets are free. Immediately after the festival, the theater will host an "East Palestine Justice Commemorative Event," which will feature environmental activist Erin Brockovich among its guests.

You can see more details about the festival and other area events below:

More coverage of East Palestine 1 year later:

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