POV Season 20 Episode 9 Libby, Montana

In POV season 20 episode 9, titled "Libby, Montana," viewers are taken to a small town in Montana that is grappling with the devastating health impacts of asbestos exposure. Libby was once a thriving logging town, but it is now known for something far more sinister. In the early 20th century, the town's vermiculite mines were found to contain asbestos, which was used in everything from insulation to car brakes. For decades, the residents of Libby were unknowingly exposed to this deadly material, leading to widespread illness and death.

This episode of POV tells the story of the people of Libby, as they fight for justice and try to hold the companies responsible for the asbestos contamination accountable. Viewers will meet people like Gayla Benefield, a lifelong resident of Libby who lost both her parents and her husband to asbestos-related illnesses. Gayla became a powerful advocate for her community, working tirelessly to get the word out about the dangers of asbestos and pushing for government action.

We also meet other residents, like Les Skramstad, a former mine worker who has since developed lung cancer as a result of the asbestos exposure. Les has become an advocate for his fellow workers, speaking out about the negligence of the companies who knew of the dangers but continued to expose their employees.

The episode examines the role of W.R. Grace, the company that owned the vermiculite mines in Libby. Grace knew about the dangers of asbestos as early as the 1930s, but chose to keep this information from its employees and the public. When the asbestos-related illnesses began to surface in Libby, Grace denied any responsibility and fought against compensating the victims. The residents of Libby fought back with the help of lawyers like Doug Benevento, who represented the Environmental Protection Agency and helped hold Grace accountable for their actions.

As viewers watch this episode of POV, they will be horrified by the extent of the damage caused by this deadly mineral. They will see the human toll of a corporate cover-up, as families are torn apart by illness and death. They will witness the strength and resilience of a community that refuses to be silenced, as they fight for justice and demand accountability.

Ultimately, "Libby, Montana" is a powerful and moving portrait of a town that has been ravaged by greed and negligence. Through the stories of its residents, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the devastating impacts of asbestos exposure and the importance of holding corporations accountable.