August 2, 2024
A Statement from Brenda Victoria Castillo, President & CEO of the National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC)
Tomorrow August 3rd marks the five-year anniversary of the tragic El Paso Massacre, the deadliest attack on Latinos in modern U.S. history. On that fateful day, 23 innocent lives were lost, and 22 others were injured as they shopped at their local Walmart. The shooter’s manifesto, filled with hateful rhetoric and incited by former President Trump's dangerous disinformation about an 'invasion' at the border, serves as a chilling reminder of the power of words and the real-world consequences they can unleash. As we remember those who perished, let us also acknowledge the ongoing struggles our community faces due to such divisive and harmful language.
"This massacre was not just an attack on the victims and their families; it was an attack on every Latino in this country. It could have been any of us shopping that day. As a 40-year-old national civil and human rights organization, the National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC) is steadfast in its commitment to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again," said Brenda Victoria Castillo, President and CEO of NHMC. "Our community should be able to shop, live, and thrive without fear of violence fueled by hate and disinformation."
The El Paso massacre remains the largest mass shooting and hate crime against Latinos in modern history. The shooter drove across Texas to carry out the horrific attack, targeting innocent lives based on hate-fueled prejudice.
With tensions around the border still high, it is crucial to act mindfully and ensure that history does not repeat itself. We call on society to reject hate and stand up for justice and equality. Let the memory of the El Paso victims inspire us to build a future where every individual can live without fear, regardless of their background. Let us never forget and always strive for a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Yours in Movement,
Brenda Victoria Castillo
President & CEO
National Hispanic Media Coalition
