Telemundo and Univisión Face Backlash Over ICE Advertisements

Telemundo and Univisión, the nation's largest Spanish-language television networks, are at the center of a fierce controversy after airing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) advertisements urging undocumented immigrants to self-deport. The decision has sparked outrage among Latino communities and ignited a nationwide boycott campaign called "Apaga El Odio" (Turn Off the Hate).

"Entonces, ¿por qué pensarían que está bien asustar a los mismos clientes o a quienes ayudan a mantener la luz?"
— Mitzi Castro, Mijente Arizona Coordinator

The Controversial ICE Campaign

The DHS ads, narrated by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, explicitly instruct undocumented immigrants to "salir ahora" (leave now) and warn, "Los perseguiremos" (We will pursue you). These advertisements have been broadcast across digital platforms, radio, and television—including on Telemundo and Univisión—despite criticism that they foster fear in Latino communities.

The campaign offers controversial incentives for self-deportation, including free travel, waived fines, and a $1,000 bonus through a mobile app called "CBP Home." While DHS officials insist the ads are not anti-immigrant, activists argue they spread psychological violence and equate being Latino with criminality.

"Apaga El Odio" Boycott Gains Momentum

The boycott movement, launched by the Latino advocacy group Mijente, calls on viewers to "turn off the hate" by boycotting both networks. Within two weeks, the campaign garnered nearly 5,000 signatures from viewers who feel betrayed by the networks they once trusted.

"Lo que más les interesa (a Univisión y Telemundo) es el dinero, no los sentimientos de la comunidad inmigrante," said Dagoberto Aguilar, a naturalized U.S. citizen and long-time viewer. "Nos dicen que están de nuestro lado, pero al mismo tiempo, nos dan la espalda."

The movement has gained high-profile support from Arizona State Senator Analise Ortiz, who called the decision "una bofetada total a su base" (a total slap to their base). Ortiz represents a Phoenix district with 75% Latino population, emphasizing the ad's harm to immigrant families.

Corporate Defenses and Legal Implications

TelevisaUnivisión defended its policy, citing "uniform advertising standards" that evaluate legal compliance and factual accuracy. The company stressed its news division operates independently of advertising decisions:

"Noticias Univisión mantiene su pleno compromiso de brindar una cobertura exhaustiva, responsable y continua de los temas que más importan a nuestra audiencia."
— Anna Negron, TelevisaUnivisión Corporate Communications

Meanwhile, NBCUniversal (Telemundo's parent company) remained silent. Legal experts note that broadcasters have the right to reject government ads without legal penalty, though political retaliation remains a concern.

"Emisoras como Univisión y Telemundo podrían rechazar los anuncios sin consecuencias legales," said Robert Corn-Revere, a former FCC advisor. "Últimamente no han sido muy meticulosos con la legislación vigente."

Community Impact and Mental Health Concerns

Health professionals warn the ads inflict "violencia psicológica" (psychological violence) on Latino communities. For many immigrant families, the broadcasts represent a profound betrayal of trust, as Telemundo and Univisión are often viewed as "alguien en quien confían" (someone they trust).

As the boycott expands, the networks face a critical dilemma: prioritize advertising revenue or maintain their role as trusted voices for Latino Americans. The controversy underscores broader tensions around media representation and immigrant rights in an increasingly polarized media landscape.