The world’s coral reefs are dying and one Noblesville group is trying to raise awareness about this global environmental issue.
Kara Bilbrey is a member of the Social Justice and Advocacy Team at Noblesville First United Methodist Church, 2051 Monument St.
Bilbrey, who helps organize a monthly film and discussion event at the church, spoke to The Reporter about this month’s film, “Chasing Coral.” The church calls this program the Just Films series, and it takes places the third Monday of each month.
At 6:30 p.m. on Monday, July 15, the Social Justice and Advocacy Team will continue its Just Films series in The Vine room, which can be reached by entering through Doors 4 and 5.
Noblesville First United Methodist Church. (Photo provided)
“The evening will feature the visually stunning ‘Chasing Coral,’ a 2017 documentary film about a team of divers, scientists and photographers around the world who document the disappearance of coral reefs caused by global warming,” Bilbrey told The Reporter.
Monday’s guest expert will be Indianapolis Zoo Oceans Area Manager Sally Hoke.
According to Bilbrey, the church will screen the film and offer the audience 30 minutes with Hoke for discussion and Q&A.
“Chasing Coral” was the 2017 Audience Award Winner at Sundance Film Festival, won Best Documentary at the 2017 Peabody Awards, Best Documentary Film at The Satellite Awards, and continues to receive global recognition.
The film has also received three News and Documentary Emmy award nominations for Outstanding Nature Documentary, Best Documentary and Outstanding Music and Sound.
“Hopefully the audience leaves the night with a series of actionable steps that we can all do to help make a small difference in the world,” Bilbrey said.
Bilbrey told The Reporter this film moved her deeply.
“For me it was really impactful,” Bilbrey said. “You hear that honeybees are dying and you hear that polar bears are dying, but you still see honeybees and you still see polar bears on videos. But for the coral reefs it is so impactful because one minute they are there – beautiful and colorful and healthy – and two months later they are dead. They are nothing but skeletons with brown algae growing on them.”
The event is free and open to the public. Coffee, water and popcorn will be provided.
You can learn more about “Chasing Coral” and watch the trailer at chasingcoral.com.