AMI-tv to air original documentary The Halifax Explosion, to commemorate 100th anniversary of the event

Accessible Media Inc. (AMI) announced today 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.

On December 3 AMI-tv will air The Halifax Explosion – a few days ahead of the anniversary of the event on December 6. That morning, two ships – one laden with high explosives – collided in the Halifax Harbour, causing a massive explosion. Thousands of people were killed and more than 9,000 were injured. Many people of all ages and from all walks of life sustained serious eye injuries causing 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).

“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,” says John Melville, Vice President of Programming and Production for AMI-tv. “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 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.

“The Halifax Explosion is an important part of the history of this city and Canada, even to this day,” says Johanna Eliot, Executive Producer of the documentary and President of Ocean Entertainment. “We’re honoured to be able to tell stories of survival from that day, and of the response in the weeks and months following.”

The Halifax Explosion is produced by Ocean Entertainment and presented by AMI in association with the CBC and the City of Halifax. The documentary will premiere on Sunday, December 3 at 5 p.m. ET. The full documentary will be available online at AMI.ca after the initial broadcast.