‘Oppenheimer’ Movie Under Fire For Overlooking Nuclear Test Survivors

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The movie “Oppenheimer” has come under heavy criticism for failing to acknowledge the long-term impact of the nuclear test on the survivors who were exposed to radiation. Despite the film’s success and critical acclaim, it has been accused of disregarding the experiences of individuals who played a crucial role in the development of Los Alamos in New Mexico.

Unaddressed Fallout

The “Oppenheimer” movie, which is expected to receive numerous accolades at the upcoming Academy Awards, has drawn sharp criticism for omitting the contributions of the people associated with Los Alamos and the Trinity Test. Tina Cordova, the co-founder of the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium, highlighted the ongoing repercussions of the world’s first nuclear bomb test on families in New Mexico, spanning several generations.

Legacy of Radiation Exposure

The nuclear bomb test conducted in July 1945 had far-reaching consequences, as the toxic debris from the detonation contaminated the environment, including the landscape, water sources, and the food chain. This resulted in the exposure of New Mexico residents to harmful radiation, leading to a myriad of health issues, particularly cancer.

Exclusion from Compensation

Tina Cordova emphasized that the filmmakers deliberately overlooked the devastating aftermath of the nuclear test, mirroring the historical neglect of New Mexico residents in the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA). Despite the detrimental impact on the affected individuals, efforts to include them in the compensation program were thwarted due to budgetary concerns, further exacerbating their plight.

Advocacy for Recognition

As “Oppenheimer” garners acclaim and attention, Tina Cordova has been vocal in advocating for the acknowledgment of the New Mexico community’s enduring struggle. With the impending Senate vote on the reauthorization and expansion of RECA, the spotlight is once again on the longstanding issue that continues to affect the lives of those impacted by the nuclear test.