TORONTO – Accessible Media Inc. (AMI) is readying the broadcast premiere of an original documentary detailing one of the worst manmade explosions in history and how it forever changed the lives of Canadians with sight loss.
The Halifax Explosion will air December 3 at 5:00 PM ET, just a few days ahead of the 100th anniversary of the event. On December 6, 1917, two ships – one laden with high explosives – collided in the Halifax Harbour, causing a massive explosion that killed thousands of people and injured more than 9,000. Many people of all ages and from all walks of life sustained serious eye injuries resulting in sight loss, mainly from shards of glass and debris from the countless buildings that were destroyed. Ultimately, the Halifax Explosion was a catalyst for the creation of one of the nation's largest charities, the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB).
The documentary recounts the events from that day, including an animated recreation of the explosion, a comprehensive collection of archival material, and interviews with relatives of people who were there. Integrated Described Video guides the audience through the documentary, making it accessible for individuals who are blind or partially sighted.
"We're so pleased to be airing such a fantastic documentary that is so pertinent to our audience and the history of one of our major partners," said AMI-tv programming and production VP John Melville, in the news release. "The devastation of the Halifax Explosion really united the community and it's important to share those stories of resiliency with today's generation."
The Halifax Explosion is produced by Ocean Entertainment and presented by AMI in association with the CBC and the City of Halifax. The full documentary will be available online at AMI.ca after the initial broadcast.
