The U.S. Census says it is depending on us. Nearly 60 million Americans (I think they mean people in the U.S.) rely on us for information. Who are we? We are ethnic media.

It’s hard to get one definition of what ethnic media is. One article states that it’s media, including TV, radio, newspapers, and Web sites that is often broadcasted or published in another language. Ethnic media can include huge corporate media sources like Univision and small independent sources like um lets say The Sanctuary.

The Sanctuary is a group site that I am involved with that includes an amazing group of “ethnic” perspectives on immigration. New America Media awarded the site this year and I couldn’t be prouder of the work and people involved. And let’s be real, for a small independent site to receive the honor is gratifying especially in light of the fact that the overwhelmingly majority of the work that the equipo does is done from the corazon with little to no pay. The work done there, just like the work done here, happens while juggling jobs that pay the bills and raising children.

I think what is missing from the definition of ethnic media is what is at the core of it. A sense of responsibility to the community, not that we represent but that we are a part of. All that is done comes from a great sense of love and love for justice.

Pa’lante