BUFFALO’S VOICES OF STEEL

Debuted September 14, 2010 on WNED-TV

 

Former steelworkers from Western New York were key players in a dynamic era of a booming blue-collar community. By sharing their memories in BUFFALO’S VOICES OF STEEL, they honor the contributions of all who labored for the industrial giants that drove the mid- to-late 20th century American economy.

This thoughtful documentary is both history and oral history, featuring personal, often poignant recollections while documenting a culture that could have thrived in any “Steeltown, USA.”

The film presents the pros and cons of a defining time and place ― from the dangerous yet desirable job of making steel, to issues of workers’ rights, racial discrimination and upward mobility. It also considers the broader connections: among the workers; between the plants and the neighborhoods; and within the hearts of those left behind when the industry collapsed.

BUFFALO’S VOICES OF STEEL tells how an industry helped to forge “The American Dream.” Well-paying jobs offered middle-class prosperity and opportunity for steelworkers and their families — a house and a car, summer vacations and college educations for the next generation.

Ultimately, the film is about people and communities ― and a legacy of friendship and camaraderie forged by hard work and common bonds.

BUFFALO’S VOICES OF STEEL was produced by Driftwood Productions and WNED Buffalo/Toronto, with support from Western Regional Off Track Betting.