A documentary film described by The Associated Press as "about coal mining and the environment" was to have premiered on Saturday in South Charleston. The screening has been canceled, however, because of "security concerns" at the museum where the event was to have been held.
We know very little about the film, "Coal Country," other than that is involves the controversy over mountaintop removal mining. We don't know whether "Coal Country" portrays the practice favorably or unfavorably.
But we do know this: No cultural event in our state should have to be canceled because of "security concerns." Free exchange of ideas is a tool vital to help West Virginians make up our minds on controversial issues. Those who would block such exchanges by creating "security concerns" are wrong.
We hope the film's producer, Braxton County native Mari-Lynn Evans, can find another venue for the premiere.
Wheeling, perhaps?
