Journalism Symposium celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

October 9, 2016February 25, 2020 The Guardsman

Above image: From left to right: Joe Vazquez, Jacqueline Martinez Garcel, Jim Salinas talking about about Latino Electoral Power in the Diego Rivera Theater at CCSF on Sept. 24, 2016. (Photo by Gabriela Reni/ The Guardsman)

By Gardenia Zuniga-Haro

Juan Gonzales, department chair of journalism at City College, speaks with a symposium attendee. (Photo by Gabriela Reni/The Guardsman)

“Our mission is to help diversify, tell real stories and educate as much as possible,” said Claudia Cruz, president of the Bay Area chapter.

NAHJ chapters included students from University of California, Berkeley and San Francisco State University (SFSU). They attended six workshops that covered photojournalism, international reporters, bloggers and public relations success stories.

“I came here thinking I was going to learn about the success in the industry, but I learned more of the major issues in the city and as a political activist,” SFSU broadcasting student Gabriela Sanchez said. “I am highly encouraged to pursue my career and make a difference in the Latino community.”

The female panel was hosted by Lupita Peimbert, the Spanish director for the NAHJ Bay Area chapter and online publisher of Lupita News. They discussed the importance of Latino presence on the internet and how to make an impact using resources.

Peimbert recounted her 25 years of journalism experience while explaining the importance of retaining Latin roots.

“We need to strive in any platform as journalist and tell the truth,” Peimbert said.

Director of Admissions and Career Services at UC Berkeley's Graduate School of Journalism, Pamela Gleason Magalhaes, led one of six workshops at the journalism symposium presented by the NAHJ at City College's Ocean Campus on Sept. 24, 2016 (Photo by Franchon Smith/The Guardsman) — Director of Admissions and Career Services at UC Berkeley’s Graduate School of Journalism, Pamela Gleason Magalhaes, led one of six workshops at the journalism symposium presented by the NAHJ at City College’s Ocean Campus on Sept. 24, 2016 (Photo by Franchon Smith/The Guardsman)

Toward the end of the event, journalism department Chair Juan Gonzales received the Journalism Community Award for his achievements in the community with his nonprofit Accion Latina newspaper, El Tecolote.

“Each recognition is a treasure,” Gonzales said. “No matter what size or who gives it to you, the fact is that you are recognized for your hard work, your dedication, and your commitment.”