Palos Heights hosts Food, Inc. 2 screening as Part of One Earth Film Festival

For the first time, Palos Heights will take part in the One Earth Film Festival, joining dozens of communities across the Chicago metropolitan area in showcasing environmental and climate-focused documentaries.

The city will host a screening of Food, Inc. 2 on Saturday, April 26, at the Palos Heights Recreation Center, 6601 W. 127th St, Palos Heights.

The event is organized by the Palos Heights Green Team in partnership with the Palos Heights Public Library, Lake Katherine Nature Center, and the Parks and Recreation Department.

The film is a sequel to the Oscar-nominated Food Inc. and continues its critical exploration of the U.S. food industry. Directed by Robert Kenner and Melissa Robledo, Food, Inc. 2 examines corporate consolidation in agriculture and its far-reaching effects on consumers, workers, and the environment.

“It raises issues about our food industry, and that feels personal to all of us — we’ve all got to eat,” said Pat Stifter, a volunteer with the Palos Heights Green Team. “It’s important for us to be aware and hopefully make decisions that have a positive impact on our environment.”

Now in its 14th year, the One Earth Film Festival is a nonprofit event focused on environmental and climate justice. This year’s theme is “Power in Unity,” and the festival will run from April 22 through April 28 across the region.

Tickets to the Palos Heights screening are free, though donations are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to register at the festival’s website: oneearthfilmfest.org.

The event reflects the mission of the Palos Heights Green Team, a collaborative, city-supported group working to promote environmental awareness and sustainability. Members include representatives from city departments, local organizations, and community volunteers.

“I’ve lived long enough to have perspective on issues related to climate change and environmental health,” Stifter said. “The reality today is different than the reality of yesterday, there are more plastics in the environment, changes in Midwest weather patterns, and rising emissions. But we’ve also seen progress: cleaner Lake Michigan water, energy-efficient technology. It’s up to each of us to protect the Earth for those who come after us.”

Stifter added that Food, Inc. 2 was chosen after much discussion among Green Team members. “This was a group decision, and the film really stood out. It connects with people in a powerful way.”

The Palos Heights Green Team hopes this inaugural film screening is just the beginning of more community-focused, sustainability-driven events in the future.

Doors open at 5:45 p.m. with Food, Inc. 2 starting promptly at 6 p.m.