By Cole Bedics*
Alabama is a very diverse state, a fact you have probably heard of before. We lead the nation in freshwater biodiversity. Another fact you may be unaware of: Alabama has one of the highest extinction rates in the nation. The juxtaposition of what we have and what we have lost is astounding, and it is a largely unknown reality to many Alabamians.
The Alabama Rivers Alliance (ARA) is a group that tries to remedy this. The ARA is a statewide network of organizations that work to protect and restore Alabama’s water resources through building partnerships, empowering communities, and advocating for change. The ARA also works to raise awareness about Alabama’s rivers and their challenges through its Southern Exposure Summer Film Fellowship, which annually brings filmmakers from around the world to tell the story of Alabama’s environment, all in an effort to highlight the state’s often imperiled natural wonders.
After the Southern Exposure films are created, they are screened in a series across the state. The Office of Sustainability partnered with the ARA to host a film night in Auburn that celebrates these films and Alabama’s dedicated people and environment.
The night started with a social hour in Pebble Hill’s courtyard. In addition to the ARA, there were 13 organizations present, including:
- Saugahatchee and Chewacla Water Watch
- Tallapoosa Watershed Coalition
Whew—that was a long list. But bringing together all these organizations was what the night was all about. In that courtyard, there were a hundred people who cared—a community of people who recognized Alabama’s treasures and wanted to learn more about and protect them.
A beautiful day for community-building.
The courtyard social hour was abuzz with conversation. Organizations were talking to each other, and newcomers were seeking ways to get involved. Popcorn was popping; s’mores were being made in the corner with Auburn Outdoors, and the Fly-Fishing Club was giving fly-casting lessons on the lawn. This was a community that transcended the campus of Auburn University; it brought together people from all over East Alabama who wanted to connect with others passionate about protecting nature.
There were many groups eager to tell you what they are all about.
As attendees began filing inside to find their seats for the films, the excitement was palpable. There were so many people in attendance that some had to line the walls, craning their necks to get a peek. The films were wonderful, each fully capturing that intangible Alabama feeling in its own way. Without spoiling them, they ranged in topic from poetry to advocacy but mostly focused on the stories of people who call Alabama home and immerse themselves in a love for this natural state.
After the screening, we had the opportunity to hear from some of the films’ “subjects.” They were members of veteran fly-fishing organizations that have built communities through the act of fishing together. They shared their perspectives on how the films were created and why it is so important to foster communities that can work together to protect shared interests.
The Southern Exposure Film Screening was more than just a movie night; it was a celebration of Alabama’s wonders, and the people and communities who care for them. Bringing all these groups together both brought greater awareness to the environmental issues that are, and a greater sense of connection to community and nature.
A packed house for this year’s films.
The Auburn University Office of Sustainability puts on an April film night annually, so if you missed this year’s film or want to go to another, you’re in luck, we will be back next year! Keep up to date with the office by following us on: Facebook, and Instagram.
See you next year!
Cole Bedics is the Engagement Coordinator of the Office of Sustainability.
