What is the state of Latino media? How are Latinos represented in media? These are a few of the topics that were discussed in the “Latinos in the Media” panel hosted by Whittier College on March 31. A group of six prominent and award-winning journalists discussed important issues and topics around the industry, career tips, and life lessons with an engaged audience of students, staff, faculty, and community members at the Shannon Center for the Performing Arts. The panelists included Gustavo Vargas (Noticias Mundo Fox), Claudia Mendoza (Univision Los Angeles), Rolando Nichols (Mundo Fox LA) Naibe Reynoso (Ora), Carlos Alvarez (Radio Super Estrella LA), and Vanessa Gonzalez ’09 (National Association of Latino Independent Producers.)
One of the topics discussed by the panelists was the state of Latino media. Mendoza quickly pointed out the strength of Spanish-language media based on its high rating, some of them higher than mainstream media channels in television or radio.
The panelists spoke about the importance of being bilingual and being proud of it. Nichols expanded and said second-generation Latinos should be proud of their heritage and embrace speaking Spanish. “Mastering both English and Spanish will increase a person’s income potential in the future,” added Nichols.
“Remember you’re not only bilingual but you’re also bicultural,” said Vargas to the young students in the audience. “That is an enormous advantage in this industry,” he added.
A willingness to learn and a having a thirst for knowledge was a theme that several of the panelists touched upon. “You’re doing the right thing already,” said Vargas. “You’re getting your bachelor’s degree. That’s a great start.” Nichols jumped at the opportunity to comment on this topic and added that work experience through internships is also very important to get into the journalism industry and to advance in it.
“When looking for job opportunities don’t be afraid to pick up the phone or knock on doors,” said Reynoso. She recounted the story of how she found her first job in television and she said that she didn’t take no for an answer and called the Spanish-language networks in Los Angeles until they hired her.
Alvarez shared a similar message of tenacity with the audience. He said that even though he started his career in finance and banking, his love for radio was always there. “Everyone told me that I had a great voice for radio, so I decided to go for it and change careers. I went in for an interview and I was nice to the receptionist and she must’ve seen promise in me. It was because of her that I got a call back and got a start in radio,” said Alvarez.
Latinos are not only succeeding in Spanish-language media but they’re also crossing over to mainstream media. “Look at the success of Jane, the Virgin or Modern Family,” said Gonzalez. “Viewers are looking for content or story lines that resemble what they see in their daily lives. That includes diversity and it’s a huge opportunity for Latinos,” she added.
The event was made possible by the support of Whittier College’s Department of Languages and Literature, Ortiz Programs, MEchA, and ASWC Senate.
