With convention turnout expected to be low, the National Association of Hispanic Journalists has helped some members with their expenses.

By Jesus Ledezma
Latino Reporter

You would think a convention in the middle of the Caribbean in a city known for hospitality would draw thousands, but getting to San Juan this year has proven tough.

With turnout expected to be low, the National Association of Hispanic Journalists has paid for some members to attend this year’s convention.

“We got two grants for $50,000 each to support those who were laid off, and to give training to those that still have jobs,” said Ivan Roman, NAHJ executive director. “And we want to get as many Latino journalists as possible to emerge and adapt.”

It’s not clear what role the bad economy, job losses and a condensing industry had on the turnout for the convention. But organizers said only 750 people had pre-registered — about half the number that attended previous conventions.

Seventy NAHJ members were awarded full assistance, which covered airfare, registration and hotel costs. There were other 36 members who also received partial help for registration, airfare or both.

“Journalists applied for financial aid because they know they will get the multimedia training they need,” Roman said.

The organization made an effort to bring journalists and teach them about technology, new trends in the media, and what could be the future of journalism.

Those who didn’t apply or were not awarded assistance had to look for different ways to finance their visit to Puerto Rico.

“The Arizona Latino Media Association is helping us with the payment of registration, but we have to cover the rest,” said Juan Villa, a reporter with Telemundo in Phoenix. “When we come back, we have to prepare a presentation for members of ALMA who couldn’t go to the convention, but still want to know about the new trends in journalism.”

Villa, along with his colleague Patricia Batres, usually got support from Telemundo Arizona, their employer. But the station could not cover the expenses this year.

“I think paying for participating in the convention is an investment that will pay off with more knowledge and opportunities,” Batres said. “It’s an opportunity to become a better journalist.”

Share this post