By Jazlyn Cordero
The Hills, directed by PBS is a thought-provoking documentary that brings into
light the detrimental long-term effects the steel industry has on the quality of life for Chicago’s Southeast residents.
This documentary highlights how a Chicago community is left in complete devastation due to the accumulation of steel waste, toxic disposal, and pollution. For over a century, the steel mills in this area have taken advantage of the vulnerability of this marginalized community, leaving generations to suffer the consequences of their actions.
As I watched this film, I could not help but notice the depleted greenage, the dry marshlands, or the thick sluggish water that was so polluted it had the appearance of wet cement- all of which were once known to be beautiful staples in the communities affected. The film presents locals in the area speaking out on their personal experiences such as a fear to consume or pursue activities with the water in their area, after reporting seeing oil particles just floating about. Poor water quality can be harmful to Chicago as a whole, not just limited to its Southeast side, as the residue from these steel companies do end up in Lake Michigan which is not only the main source of water for Illinois but neighboring states such as Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin – proving that waste disposal from these steel companies affects such a massive level of people, which is why the issue should be a main priority.
A consideration is made for the Chicago workers of these steel mills as well, as they were victims of this double-sided industry. The presence of these steel
mills created jobs that families needed to create their definition of a stable life. This is something steel mills took advantage of, and when the time came these steel mills just as easily let go of their workers the same way they accepted them, essentially leaving Chicago workers and members of the community in shambles trying to figure out their next move.
Steel Mill
Watching The Hills, as a resident of Chicago has enlightened me to the challenges that our BIPOC communities are forced to face. These challenges are issues that are more commonly viewed as temporary by the majority of Chicagoans, but the film highlights the bitter fact that the perception is false and that these effects are long-lasting and harm communities for a lifetime. Oftentimes people do not even acknowledge the full extent of the dangers of the steel industry. The damage brought upon these areas by steel companies, unfortunately, affects Chicago as a whole.
Meaningful environmental progress requires individual and collective responsibility. Overall, the film succeeds in sparking a broader movement toward environmental awareness and, more importantly, action for the future of our planet.
The Hills will be shown on April 23 at the Illinois Institute of Technology (3201 S. State St., Chicago) from 6:00–9:00 PM. Doors open at 5:30 for refreshments and action tables. Free admission, reserve tickets now: https://www.oneearthfilmfest.org/2025-films-a-z-1/2025/3/17/the-hills
