Since 2010, SBTHP has presented the Asian American Film Series, a free event held on Fridays in July at the Alhecama Theatre at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park, in an effort to explore the history and cultures of the Asian communities that once thrived in and around the Santa Barbara Presidio area.

Photographic Justice: The Corky Lee Story

For 50 years, Chinese American photographer Corky Lee documented the celebrations, struggles, and daily lives of Asian American Pacific Islanders with epic focus. Determined to push mainstream media to include AAPI culture in the visual record of American history, Lee produced an astonishing archive of nearly a million compelling photographs. His work takes on new urgency with the alarming rise in anti-Asian attacks during the Covid pandemic. Jennifer Takaki’s intimate portrait reveals the triumphs and tragedies of the man behind the lens.   

 Q&A with Jennifer Takaki (Director) & Linda Hattendorf (Editor) will follow the screening.

This event is free to attend for all SBTHP members, with a suggested $5 donation for non-members. Seating is first come, first served! 

​This film series is made possible by the generous support of the George H. Griffiths and Olive J. Griffiths Charitable Foundation.