SMC spreads history and resources at their Coastal Cleanup

Santa Monica College (SMC) held a Coastal Cleanup day at their adopted historic beach, the “Inkwell”, on Sept. 20. Students gathered to pick up trash all along the beach, learn more about what makes up our trash and recycling, as well as the historical significance of the site.

According to a press release about the event, the adopted beach is where “SMC student Nick Gabaldón and other African Americans challenged Jim Crow racism and helped open public beaches for all.” Gabaldón is credited with being California’s first documented surfer of African American and Mexican American descent. Historian Allison Rose Jefferson was at the event to spread awareness of the historical significance of the beach to attendees. 

For anyone interested in learning more about the African American experience at Bay Street, they can check out Jefferson’s book “Living the California Dream: African American leisure sites during the Jim Crow era”,  learn more about Belmar history in the now historic Belmar Park, or find more information at the Santa Monica Conservancy online or in person. 

Sustainability Director at SMC, Ferris Kawar, led the event, sharing information on why keeping our beaches clean is important and how students can reduce their waste or recycle better in the future. For students interested in learning more about the sustainability programs at SMC, check out the Sustainability Department to learn more about clubs, education, certificates, or general knowledge.  

Stay tuned for more coverage on this event.