AFF Presents...SHELTER IN PLACE

Petro-chemical companies have fed the Texas economy for decades. Because of this, the laws can cater towards them. The “upsets” loophole allows refineries to release unscheduled and accidental emissions anytime, just as long as they are reported. Unfortunately, for the people who live in communities like Port Arthur, TX, there can be over 13,000 of these “unusual” instances every year. Nelson speaks to residents about their experiences living in the shadow of three refineries, while tracking the progress of a court case on behalf of the children in the community, many of whom suffer from severe respiratory problems. Nelson’s film shows the neglect companies show for people deemed expendable and claiming not to know if there are long-term side effects doesn’t mean there aren’t any. Presented in partnership with The Texas Observer