NHMC Continues to Emphasize the Impact that Hate Speech Online Has on Latino Communities


Hate speech online is an ongoing threat to targeted communities, especially Latinos. The attacks in New Zealand, Pittsburgh, and Charlottesville also illustrate why far ­right ideologies that fester online endanger communities nationwide. In response to the public outcry over far ­right extremist recruitment and hate messaging on social media platforms, the Anti-Defamation League and New America convened a panel of experts to discuss emerging threats from online extremism.

The event opened with remarks from Rep. Katherine Clark, Vice Chair of the House Demoncratic Caucus. Francella Ochillo, the National Hispanic Media Coalition’s Vice President of Policy & General Counsel, discussed the far-reaching and lasting impact that hate speech online has on Latino communities. She explained how the trickle-down effect can deter Latino Americans and other immigrant populations from obtaining health care, enrolling children in school, participating in the census, or exercising voting rights.


The Targets of Hate panel was moderated by Adam Neufeld (Anti-Defamation League). Other panelists included Nora Benavidez (PEN America), Arusha Gordon (Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law) and Shahid Rahman (American Muslim Institution).

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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