In September 2024, Hurricane Helene ravaged Appalachia, leaving behind catastrophic destruction and economic turmoil. Echoing the 1916 flood, the community has united to rebuild, drawing strength from its deep cultural roots. Amid the wreckage, three women from one family tree and an unbroken oral tradition—eighth-generation ballad singers and keepers of Appalachian folk music—are using centuries-old songs to heal the people of the mountains, preserve their heritage, and stand resilient against the rising waters.

This film is timely and relevant as it explores the intersection of cultural preservation, community resilience, and environmental crisis in Appalachia. The ballads of Madison County, an oral tradition passed down through generations, are a powerful symbol of Appalachian heritage—one that is being threatened by both environmental destruction and social change. The destruction and loss from Hurricane Helene in the region reflects the broader challenges faced by rural communities in the wake of climate change, economic decline, and the erosion of cultural spaces.

At its heart, the documentary raises questions about the role of art and tradition in times of crisis, the fight for cultural survival, and the resilience of rural communities facing both environmental and socio-economic challenges. It is a celebration of heritage, hope, and the unbreakable bonds of family and community.

Currently in production, Resilient Roots has received Initial funding from the North Carolina Department of Natural & Cultural Resources. With fiscal sponsorship from the Association for Cultural Equity and a scholarship to the Impact Campaign Accelerator with Looky Looky Pictures. The project has received a letter of support from PBS North Carolina, expressing their intent to broadcast the film and provide comprehensive marketing support across both television and digital platforms. PBS NC also plans to collaborate with national PBS affiliates to amplify the film’s reach to audiences across the country.