The documentary Steel Town Down reveals a troubling story of social decline in the small city of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Once a thriving hub for steel production, it has become an example of what happens when industry and opportunity dwindle. VICE News follows those living in the city to see how they have been affected by the collapse of their former livelihoods.
The documentary exposes how people have had to adjust to life without the once-prominent industry, with little hope for new opportunities or employment for young people. It also explores how those who remain in the area have found ways to cope with the loss, from creating businesses out of necessity to using art and music as a way of expressing themselves in difficult situations.
Steel Town Down is a vivid reminder that small towns can be just as susceptible as large cities when it comes to economic shocks and depression. Its powerful interviews with community members demonstrate the human cost of this decline, while highlighting innovative attempts at rebuilding and revitalizing Sault Ste. Marie’s future prospects.
This powerful documentary is not only informative but incredibly moving – it offers valuable insight into an issue which affects many communities around the world today. For anyone interested in understanding more about industrial collapse, or keen on learning more about Canadian history, Steel Town Down is essential viewing – an urgent call for action from one town facing severe hardship due to its circumstances beyond its control.
