Documenting Latinx History, One Wikipedia Post at a Time

Wikipedia edit-a-thons are a chance for local communities to gather and update the site, often with an emphasis on amplifying underserved and underrepresented communities.

The Latinx Project at NYU, in partnership with NYU Libraries with support from Wikimedia NYC, is hosting its first-ever Wikipedia edit-a-thon with a focus on the Latinx community. "Latinx Interventions," which takes place Friday, October 18, aims to diversify and develop Wikipedia's entries on Latinx history and culture. 

Arlene Dávila, founder and director of the Latinx Project, says this is not just an academic enterprise — it's a political statement, and a tool for empowering Latinx communities.

"There is an incredible lack of knowledge in this country about Latinx history as American history, as something that all of us should know about," Dávila said. "This needs to be known, and if it's not out there, then we're going to create it."

WNYC's Alejandra Salazar spoke with Richard Hake.