As Afro-Latina journalist Ilia Calderón is set to become the first Hispanic woman to solo anchor 'Noticiero Univision,' one of the most tense moments of her career has resurfaced: it was during an interview with Chris Barker, leader of the Ku Klux Klan group the Loyal White Knights.
This encounter, part of a report for the TV program 'Aquí y Ahora,' showcased enduring racial hatred in the U.S. and became a powerful testament to Calderón's bravery and professionalism.
During the interview, which took place on Barker's North Carolina property, tensions rose when the Klan member noticed Calderón's Afro-Latina heritage, leading him to insult and violently threaten her.
"We're going to burn you"
The interview's most intense moment came as Barker, after using racial slurs, directly threatened Calderón: "We're going to burn you out." This comment echoed the KKK's infamous practices, and while Calderón expected a challenging interview, she later admitted she hadn't anticipated this level of hate. "My team warned me I'd likely be insulted... but I never imagined such intensity," she reflected on Univision.
Barker also questioned Calderón's nationality, demanding she "return to her country." Though Calderón is an American citizen, Barker viewed her as an unwelcome foreigner, highlighting the anti-immigrant rhetoric that such groups have historically espoused.
She calmly responded: "My skin color doesn't define me." When Calderón challenged him on his threats toward immigrants, Barker coldly replied, "We already killed six million Jews last time. Eleven million is nothing."
'Facing Hate Head-On: Ilia Calderón's Interview with KKK Leader Chris Barker'
Beyond its media impact, the interview marked a turning point in Calderón's career. Throughout her journey, she has covered immigration, human rights, and social justice issues, among others.
Now, as the first Hispanic woman to lead *Noticiero Univision*, Calderón continues making history, representing a diverse community facing challenges both within and beyond the media. This new role allows her to build her legacy of journalistic integrity, amplify minority voices, and maintain her commitment to delivering truth to the Latino community in the U.S.
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