Jobaaj Stories
El Mundo: A Las Vegas Legacy Ends, a Digital Future Begins
For nearly half a century, El Mundo, a Spanish-language newspaper, served as a vital lifeline for Las Vegas' Latino community. Founded by Edmundo Escobedo Sr. and his son, Edmundo Escobedo Jr., in 1981, the paper chronicled the community's joys and struggles, from quinceañeras and soccer matches to political events and immigration issues. But in late March 2025, El Mundo ceased its print edition, marking the end of an era for Las Vegas’ Hispanic press.
A Family Affair, a Community Voice
El Mundo wasn't just a newspaper; it was a family business, with Escobedo Jr. carrying on his father's legacy after his passing in 2010. The paper's 100+ page editions, once brimming with local news, eventually dwindled to 12 pages, a victim of the changing media landscape and dwindling advertising revenue. Despite the challenges, the Escobedos remained committed, distributing the free paper throughout the community.
The Digital Transition
The closure of El Mundo’s print edition isn't the end, but a strategic pivot. Escobedo Jr. aims to relaunch the paper digitally, preserving its local focus and community spirit. He plans to leverage social media and other digital platforms to connect with a younger audience while still serving the needs of long-time readers. This transition is a response to the broader challenges facing print media, where advertising revenues have plummeted, and younger demographics increasingly consume news online.
A Void in the Community
The closing of El Mundo, following the Las Vegas Review-Journal's termination of its Spanish-language coverage, leaves a significant gap in news dissemination for Nevada's large Hispanic population. Community members express concern about the loss of a vital source of information, particularly for those less familiar with digital platforms. The digital version of El Mundo hopes to fill that gap, providing up-to-date news and resources that cater to the community’s needs.
Looking Ahead
El Mundo's digital reincarnation represents a bold step for a publication deeply rooted in its community. By embracing the digital age while maintaining its commitment to local news, El Mundo aims to continue its legacy as a vital voice for Las Vegas' Hispanic community for years to come. The family hopes to launch the digital platform in September 2025.
