Atlanta, GA - Over the weekend, DISH Network stopped carrying Univision’s networks and stations over a contract dispute. This is outrageous, especially as Univision offered a two-week extension so that DISH’s customers could continue receiving popular and important Spanish-language programming, including news about the crisis at the border while the companies continued negotiations. DISH even went as far to stop carrying Univision on the eve of the Mexican elections. 

“When our community needs access to the information on what’s happening to our immigrant families on the border most. It is unacceptable for #Dish to walk away from the negotiation table,” said Jose Marquez-Leon, CEO @TechLatino.  Where is the commitment to diversity & Latino community? 

DISH has claimed that Univision is asking for more money but has not denied that it is refusing to pay for Spanish-language programming on par with what it pays for English-language programming.  My question to DISH – why won’t you pay Univision the same rates you pay its peers for English-language programming?  Spanish-language programming should not be relegated to second-class status, especially given DISH’s extensive marketing to our Hispanic communities.

DISH must come to the negotiation table in good faith and remember the community you serve. #QuieroMiUnivision

Please join me in calling DISH at 1-800-500-4252  or tweeting @DISH to tell it that we expect DISH to restore Univision’s networks immediately and negotiate a fair and equitable deal that doesn’t undervalue Spanish-language programming or the Hispanic community.