San Antonio Immigration Discussion Causes Stir

We didn’t set out for it to be that way, but these things just happen.

I was asked several days ago to moderate a panel discussion on PBS’ Spanish sister network Vme. The idea was to have a rational discussion, void of the usual ranting and shallow rhetoric seen and heard on other venues. So a panel of working journalists was assembled to talk about the issue and the news.

The panel includes Hernan Rozemberg, of Texas Public Radio; Monica Navarro, of KWEX-Univision; and Alicia Conde, of La Prensa.

What happened, though, is that news of the program caught the attention of some folks who took offense to the planned event. Specifically George Rodriguez, of the San Antonio Tea Party. Here’s an excerpt of his memo/call to action:

KLRN Channel 9 is hosting a panel discussion on immigration on 2-8-11. But if you read the attached news article, you will see that the panel includes only liberal Hispanics. I think it’s time to again call the station to complain about this phony discussion which exclude any conservative points of view. The phone number and e-mail is attached. Please hone or e-mail the station and demand equal, fair and balance discussions. It is being organized by Victor Landa, and his e-mail is below, too. Please let them hear our voice.

This memo was the first indication to me that I had organized the event. But it explained the calls and email…enough said.

What’s the adage? It doesn’t matter what they say about you, as long as they spell your name right.

Here’s a link to the announcement:

KLRN to host Vme immigration panel Feb. 8

If you’re close to downtown at 5:30pm , come by, we’ll have a live audience and will be taking questions.