National Hispanic Media Coalition Establishes Visionary Alliance

National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC) announced the members of its first NHMC Visionary Alliance. The Visionary Alliance consists of “some of the most dynamic and celebrated Latine voices in the creative space who are aligned in their support of NHMC’s mission, innovative programming and advocacy.”

The creation of the Visionary Alliance builds off of NHMC’s 2023 theme “We are the rule, not the exception” — moving past Latino representation as a “trendy” topic, in both media and social justice, and part of the framework of major organizations around the country. Visionary Alliance members will support NHMC’s advocacy to connect, collaborate, and create opportunities for Latine talent in the entertainment industry through NHMC’s programming, including the Series Scriptwriters Program and the Latinx Stream Showcase.

“We are elated that some of the most talented and influential voices in the entertainment world are part of our first ever Visionary Alliance,” said Brenda Victoria Castillo, president—CEO, National Hispanic Media Coalition. “These members are visionaries in their own right who have paved their own lanes in this industry and throughout their careers have been champions for what we stand and advocate for every day. We are committed to continuing the work in uplifting Latine creatives, while also advocating for representation and inclusivity throughout multiple industries and within our government.”

Through traditional and social media, events, advocacy and more, Alliance members will be provided opportunities to immerse themselves in NHMC’s social justice work, engage with supporters to amplify its impact and pursue NHMC’s mission of ensuring Latine representation is more than just a set of initiatives or corporate DEI commitments. The NHMC Visionary Alliance is expected to grow in the upcoming months to include visionaries from diverse industries, backgrounds and identities.

The inaugural cohort of NHMC Visionary Alliance members are:

Aubrey Plaza — “I’m honored to join the National Hispanic Media Coalition for its first ever Visionary Alliance. NHMC is not afraid to take up space and make noise to bring attention to the lack of diversity in our industry as a whole, and it’s fitting that they have brought all of us together to truly realize a vision for an inclusive Hollywood. I’m excited to show up to support the underrepresented voices that are often the inspiration behind the work we see today.”

Danny Pino — “I’m honored to join National Hispanic Media Coalition for its first ever Visionary Alliance, and stand alongside leaders in the industry that are spearheading important conversations about cultivating a more inclusive Hollywood, both in front of and behind the camera. The Latino experience is not a monolith — and it is imperative that we build a platform where Latino creatives can show audiences around the world our vast and unique stories. I look forward to joining forces with other influential Latinos in the game and creating an environment that reflects the diversity of the world today.”

Diane Guerrero — “It is a pleasure to uplift the National Hispanic Media Coalition’s advocacy work as a member of its first ever Visionary Alliance! I, alongside my peers, will connect, collaborate, and create opportunities for Latine talent to ensure that they’re in every space in the entertainment industry. I look forward to joining NHMC’s mission and being a voice for up and coming Latine talent so they’re always considered, not just when representation and diversity are fashionable. We are the rule, not the exception!”

Eva Longoria — “Representation on screen matters – it shapes not just how others see us, but also how we see ourselves. I’m excited to join the first-ever Visionary Alliance through the National Hispanic Media Coalition so we can move past conversations around improving diversity and inclusion. Together we will actively work towards a new Hollywood that uplifts Latino and Hispanic voices so the world can see the joy, the power, and the heart of our community in ways that are still all too rare. Media can make a difference in our world and together we can make real change.”

Gabriel Luna — “I’m filled with pride to be a member of NHMC’s Visionary Alliance. I look forward to our conjoined efforts to amplify Latino voices across Film and Television.”

Gina Torres — “I’m incredibly honored and excited to be an ambassador of NHMC’s Visionary Alliance. As a more than 30 year veteran of the entertainment industry, and a lifelong, loud and proud Afro Cubana, I know first-hand the importance of amplifying our voices behind the scenes and building bridges with continued and sustained exposure through education, so that the stories we tell and the images we see on screen are more diverse, yes, but also richer and more authentic. We’re an inextricable part of the fabric of this country’s story. It’s time we cease being a box to check while trending.”

Gloria Calderón Kellett — “I’m thrilled to be part of National Hispanic Media Coalition’s first ever Visionary Alliance. NHMC’s programs have given aspiring Latine writers a stepping stone to break into the industry and lend their voices to hit productions we all know and love. I am honored to be part of their mission to achieve a more diverse and inclusive industry that values and uplifts our stories and experiences.”

Harvey Guillén — “It goes without saying that representation of all kinds matters. That is why it is such an honor to be part of the first members of the NHMC’s inaugural Visionary Alliance working to bring representation where we need it most. Can’t wait to share more on the work we are doing!”

Ismael Cruz Córdova — “There is so much strength in the Latinx community and untapped power, stories and talent that are beyond ready for the chance to be heard. When it comes to those who are holding decision makers accountable, I honor the NHMC and their work. That is why I am thrilled to be part of their first ever Visionary Alliance, alongside my colleagues as we fight to fully ignite and unite the spectrum of voices of underrepresented communities. I wholeheartedly believe that as we band together in a deep embrace of the full spectrum of our communities, we will start to see a true balance in the entertainment industry.”

Justina Machado — “It’s our time, time for Latino/a/x/es to take their more than deserved and earned place among the rest in the entertainment industry, in front of and behind the camera. I’m honored to stand amongst this amazing group of colleagues as I announce joining the National Hispanic Media Coalition for its first ever Visionary Alliance. This is an incredible opportunity and speaks to the strength of the Latino/a/x/e community. I’m so excited to get to work and help show the world authentic Latino/a/x/e narratives.”

Lin-Manuel Miranda — “The most joyful and important part of success is to nurture, amplify, and uplift underrepresented voices and creators to make room for everyone’s own unique stories. Humanity is at its best when everyone not only has a seat at the table but a voice and an opportunity to thrive and grow. I’m extremely honored and excited to join forces with the National Hispanic Media Coalition and this incredible group of visionaries to help build up and advocate for these new creations. Let’s get to work!”

Lisa Vidal — “Today I’m sharing the wonderful news that I will be among the first members of the NHMC’s Visionary Alliance. This is not only a joy that I share, but a win for Latinas everywhere. The Visionary Alliance with support from the NHMC are fighting to secure Latina representation in the entertainment industry and empowering generations of Latinas to come. I can’t wait to stand among my peers as we get to work!”

Rosario Dawson — “I’m thrilled to share that I will be joining the National Hispanic Media Coalition and a group of esteemed colleagues for its first ever Visionary Alliance. I’m looking forward to celebrating and amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities as we combat the lack of representation that plagues the entertainment industry. I feel ignited and supported alongside the NHMC in helping build a diverse and inclusive Hollywood we can all be proud of!”

Wilmer Valderrama — “I’m thrilled to join the National Hispanic Media Coalition for its first ever Visionary Alliance. I know firsthand the power of storytelling and the impact it can have on someone’s life. This Alliance, alongside the NHMC, has a unique opportunity to build an industry of trust, collaboration and authentically diverse storytellers that helps empower underrepresented communities to bring their ideas to the screen.”

Wilson Cruz — “Visionaries aren’t afraid to shake things up and uplift the voices of those who don’t feel heard or seen. I’m thrilled to join The National Hispanic Media Coalition’s Visionary Alliance to break the mold and challenge those who turn a blind eye to the lack of Latino representation and visibility in every sector.”

Yvett Merino — “I’m so excited to be one of the first members of the National Hispanic Media Coalition’s Visionary Alliance. Organizations like NHMC have been instrumental in building bridges between up and coming Latine producers and the entertainment industry. They start important conversations about the true meaning of diversity and inclusion and follow through with actions that have shifted the industry. I can’t wait to be part of their legacy!”