SBCAN, MICOP and Sachamama Invite the Public to Special Screenings of the Documentary “Healthy Oceans, Strong Communities”

The nonprofit organizations Santa Barbara County Action Network (SBCAN), Mixteco/Indígena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) and Sachamama invite the public to special screenings of the documentary “Healthy Oceans, Strong Communities” on April 22 at Allan Hancock College (Room M-310, “The Whale Room”) in Santa Maria, California, with two available showtimes: 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

During this special screening, held in recognition of Earth Day, a discussion panel will take place focused on concrete actions the community can take to protect marine ecosystems, including the opportunity to support the proposal to designate Point Sal as a new marine protected area.

The documentary, produced by Sachamama Original Series, explains what Marine Protected Areas are, why they are essential for ocean health and the safety of coastal communities, and why they require public support. In addition, the film is part of a Sachamama campaign that invites audiences to understand how oceans provide science-based solutions and to take action to protect them.

“At Sachamama, we go where our communities are, and we show up with solutions. When oceans lose their protections, families pay more for food, fishermen lose their income, and beaches close. These are real problems, and Marine Protected Areas are real answers,” said Janette Luviano, Director of Programs at Sachamama. 

“Point Sal is exceptionally rich ecologically, supporting diverse ocean wildlife and habitats—including kelp beds, rocky reefs, tidepools, sandy beaches, a migratory whale corridor, a critical larval retention zone, and a seabird and sea lion rookery,” said Jeanne Sparks, SBCAN co-executive director. “We hope community members who see the film will support the proposed Point Sal Marine Protected Area.”

Voices from experts, activists, and community members featured in the documentary highlight the benefits of Marine Protected Areas while also warning that weakening them puts coastal livelihoods, public trust in science, and long-term resilience at risk.

For more information, to share your story, and to participate, visit sachamama.org/oceanosfuertes, or follow us at @sachamamaorg on Instagram, Facebook y X.

About Santa Barbara County Action Network

Santa Barbara County Action Network (SBCAN) is a countywide grassroots organization that works to promote social and economic justice, to preserve our environmental and agricultural resources, and to create sustainable communities.

More information: www.sbcan.org or info@sbcan.org.

About MICOP

The Mixteco/Indígena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) is a leading nonprofit on California’s Central Coast dedicated to supporting, organizing, and empowering Indigenous migrant communities. Rooted in Indigenous worldviews, MICOP advances equity through culturally and linguistically responsive programs spanning health and wellness, labor justice, social services, youth support, and policy advocacy.

More information: https://mixteco.org

About Sachamama

Sachamama is an environmental organization that empowers Latino communities in the face of the climate crisis. Through media, education, and advocacy, we promote clean energy, sustainable lifestyles, and equitable climate solutions. Our flagship programs — Huella Zero, Climate Hub, and Latinos por la Tierra — amplify voices, develop leadership, and drive action toward a just and sustainable future.

More information: https://sachamama.org