NHMC Presents on Why Digital Access and Privacy Protections Are Important to Latino Communities at the NDIA Conference in Charlotte, NC

On April 1, 2019, the National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC) helped kick off the National Digital Inclusion Alliance’s annual conference in Charlotte, North Carolina. Francella Ochillo, NHMC’s Vice President of Policy & General Counsel, presented on why it is imperative to expand broadband access to disconnected communities. She explained that because of excessive government surveillance and related privacy intrusions, Latinos in particular need privacy protections to ensure that their personal information is managed properly online.

The panel discussion covered a host of digital rights issues spanning from rural broadband access to how programs like Lifeline, a federal subsidy that provides communications services for low-income consumers, can help bridge the digital divide. Other panelists included Amina Fazlullah and Yosef Getachew (Common Cause); Dana Floberg (Free Press); and Olivia Wein (National Consumer Law Center).  

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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