Home / Arts and Entertainment / Granny Activists Fight Toxic Coal Ash
Granny Activists Fight Toxic Coal Ash
12 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Three senior citizens rallied against a powerful utility.
- They fought to move toxic coal ash threatening Mobile River.
- A documentary captures their inspiring end-of-life mission.
A compelling documentary, "Sallie's Ashes," chronicles the extraordinary efforts of three senior citizens in Alabama who challenged a powerful utility company over environmental concerns. Sarah Smith, known as Sallie, spearheaded the campaign against Alabama Power, focusing on a dangerous, unlined coal ash reservoir near Plant Barry.
Facing a severe illness, Sallie enlisted her friends Diane Thomas and Savan Wilson in her mission to compel Alabama Power and the EPA to address the potential catastrophe. The film documents their journey as they learned to use modern tools like websites and social media to build a coalition and raise awareness about the toxic threat to the biodiverse Mobile River and Bay.
The documentary, directed by Brennan Robideaux, not only highlights the fight against environmental pollution but also serves as a poignant story of purpose, dignity, and joy at the end of life. "Sallie's Ashes" has garnered critical acclaim, earning nominations and special mentions at various film festivals, celebrating the power of ordinary people to effect change.
