Stewards of Place - Fairmont State University to Host Documentary Premiere about Farmington No. 9 Mine Disaster’s Impact on World Safety
Fairmont State University will host the U.S. premiere of A Day to Remember, a powerful documentary that explores the 1968 Farmington No. 9 Mine disaster and
its enduring impact on safety regulations and practices around the world. Originally
debuting in Brazil in Portuguese, the film will now be presented in English for its
first screening in the U.S.
“Fairmont State University is always proud to host public events like this premiere,” said Chief of Staff Brian Selmeski. “As our Strategic Vision states, we aspire to serve as ‘stewards of place’ by actively contributing to the preservation and celebration of Central Appalachian culture. Fairmont State is more than a university for students—it’s a place for everyone in the region to come together and learn.”
The event will take place on Monday, November 17, at 5:30 p.m. in Colebank Hall on Fairmont State’s campus. The evening will include a screening of the film, a panel discussion, and a reception. The event is free to attend and open to the public. Doors open at 5 p.m.
A Day to Remember revisits the tragedy that, more than four decades ago, claimed the lives of 78 miners and forever redefined workplace safety. Led by writer and producer Andreza Araújo, the film features testimonies from family members, survivors, and environmental health and safety experts, along with never-before-seen archival footage. The documentary refreshes memories, investigates root causes, and celebrates the legacy that has saved countless lives while continuing to inspire future generations.
“On November 20, 1968, we had one of the most remarkable tragedies in history, the Mine Number 9 Disaster in Farmington, West Virginia, which prompted significant changes in occupational safety legislation around the world,” said Araújo. “Given the many facts and data that were found through this investigation, none of it brought the miners back, but it certainly contributed to preventing accidents like this from happening again.”
Each year, families and community members gather for a ceremony near the anniversary to honor the victims and advocate for mine safety. Scheduled on the day after this year’s memorial service, the premiere of A Day to Remember offers a powerful reflection on the disaster and its aftermath.
Following the screening, Araújo will lead a live Q&A with a panel of experts to discuss the impact of the tragedy and the reforms it inspired. As time allows, audience members will also be able to submit questions to the panel. A reception will follow.
To better prepare for the event, RSVP responses are requested. Please visit submit yours today.
