For Immediate Release: May 4, 2016 Contact: Christina DiPasquale, 202.716.1953, press@balestramedia.com
Congressman Torres Retires As Chair, National Latino Media Council Reaffirms Its Leadership And Advocacy
Last week former Congressman Esteban Torres (D-CA) retired from his longstanding post as Chair of the National Latino Media Council (NLMC), the most influential Latino media coalition in the nation-comprised of 13 of the largest Latino civil rights and advocacy organizations dedicated to increasing Latino employment in the media industry and improving Latino portrayals on television. Torres had acted as Chair since the inception of the Council in 1999 and is now Chair Emeritus. At a meeting in Los Angeles, CA, members of the Council, by unanimous consent, also voted to maintain Alex Nogales, President and CEO of the National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC), as Secretariat of the Council. Legendary film producer, Moctesuma Esparza, facilitated the meeting. Council members lauded Mr. Torres' decades of leadership, following his announcement during the meeting that he would be retiring his post. Members left the meeting re-energized about the strides that they have made and recommitted to the work that lies ahead to open doors for Latinos. NLMC aims to radically transform the media landscape to one that is inclusive of American Latinos from all walks of life. Specifically, it is dedicated to increasing Latino employment both in front and behind the camera. NLMC signed Memoranda of Understanding with ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX sixteen years ago to create opportunities for Latinos at the networks. It is also undertaking efforts to diversify the film studios and talent agencies. Alex Nogales and the National Hispanic Media Coalition have acted as Secretariat of the Council since its founding. NLMC members include: