ABC Disney Takes Necessary Steps

NHMC Calls ABC’s Suit Against 

FCC Necessary, 

Urges Allies to Follow  

A statement by Brenda Victoria Castillo, 

President & CEO of the 

National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC)

On August 18, 2026 ABC and Disney filed suit against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) accusing the agency of a retaliatory campaign, including the FCC’s recent moves to require early application for broadcast license renewal by the network and the unprecedented elimination of the 39% national broadcast ownership cap–a law created by Congress more than twenty years ago. NHMC is encouraged by ABC’s move to stand up to this administration’s threats to our free press and our American democracy. 

Eliminating the broadcast ownership cap is a surefire way to increase media consolidation, stifle independent journalism, narrow media viewpoints, and ultimately control the newscycle narrative. Defending our democracy and our Constitution means protecting the sanctity of the First Amendment and allowing the press to flourish in freedom, not limit choice and content even further. What’s lost is significant: hyper-local news, safety and weather information relevant to your exact region, and news voices that reflect the communities they’re reporting to. It’s no surprise that during the rise of media consolidation we’re seeing little to no national news coverage of the water crisis in Puerto Rico or the power crisis in majority-Black Gary, Indiana. This is what a hollowed-out media landscape looks like, and we have to fight back. 

FCC Chairman Carr has unilaterally decided it’s his job to be arbiter of what American news stations are “allowed” to report on, and assigned himself as bully-enforcer for anyone who criticizes this administration or agency. His actions are not only misguided; they’re wholly unAmerican. As the leader of the Defend the Press coalition, NHMC calls on Congress to rein in this agency’s insubordination and inappropriate blackmail tactics.

Latinos and other historically and intentionally marginalized communities are already feeling the impact of media mergers and consolidation–and it’s only going to get worse. This is a turning point in our country, and we need more courageous allies to follow in standing up for our democracy.  

Yours in the Movement, 

Brenda Victoria Castillo

President & CEO

National Hispanic Media Coalition 

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, which includes seniors, youth, and other historically excluded groups.

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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