NHMC and Other Civil Rights Groups Met With Newly Appointed FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks

On February 6, 2019, Francella Ochillo and Daiquiri Ryan represented the National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC) in a meeting with civil rights groups and Federal Communications Commissioner (FCC) Geoffrey Starks. This was the Commissioner’s first external meeting at the agency. The discussion identified several ways in which advocates and the FCC can work together. As stated in the letter, NHMC reiterated its request for the FCC to appoint an independent commission to both examine and document telecommunications failures in Puerto Rico. "Considering the mass devastation and death toll caused by Hurricane Maria, NHMC implores the Commission to help rebuild resilient networks that can withstand natural disasters in the future in addition to ensuring that Puerto Ricans are given the same resources and oversight as their fellow Americans on the mainland." Additionally, NHMC joined other advocates in requesting that the FCC reaffirm its commitment to strengthening the Lifeline program. It is imperative that the Commission brainstorm new, innovative ways to connect the disconnected. Click here to review the letter.

National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC) is a 40+ year old 501(c)(3) non-profit, nonpartisan, civil and human rights organization that was founded to eliminate hate, discrimination, and racism toward Latino and marginalized communities.

We advance Latino visibility and influence from the halls of Washington, D.C., to the studios of Hollywood. Through our media advocacy and workforce development initiatives, NHMC creates spaces where diverse creators can connect, collaborate, and thrive. Our Series Scriptwriters Program, Latinx Stream Showcase, Creators Networking Program, Careers in Entertainment Youth Program, and Media Advocacy Fellowships serve as both incubators and pipelines, preparing the next generation of storytellers, advocates, and industry leaders. Through mentorship, education, networking opportunities, and direct access to entertainment executives, these programs help transform emerging talent into lasting industry voices while expanding authentic representation across media.

We lead the work to eliminate online hate and disinformation across media platforms. We advocate in the space of Artificial Intelligence when it intersects with civil & human rights, including making sure Latino-Interest and children’s protections are included in AI initiatives and implementations. We advocate for the Affordable Connectivity Program, Lifeline Program, Net Neutrality protections, and closing the digital divide for Latino and other marginalized communities. NHMC works in partnership with other social justice organizations to safeguard democracy in the United States of America.

NHMC is a not-for-profit, and provides equal opportunities to all individuals without regard to race, religion, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

© 2026 National Hispanic Media Coalition // communications@nhmc.org // o. (626) 792-6462
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