Silver City -- Silver City Museum Curator Javier Marrufo will present the spring season's final community conversation this Saturday, May 20, from 11 am to 12:30 pm at the Silco Theater in historic, downtown Silver City, 311 N. Bullard Street.  Marrufo, a frequent speaker on behalf of the museum, will examine how media has influenced and shaped Silver City's identity and how that impacts daily life, not only in Silver City, but throughout the county.

Early newspapers such as Mining Life promoted the community to the outside world, inviting investors, merchants, miners and others to move to Silver City. The press also shaped the town's identity for local residents by urging and praising civic efforts and accomplishments. However, such publications only told part of the community story, often omitting working class citizens and minorities.

Today, local media still share news of projects and events that impact residents' lives, and also promote the area to tourists and recreation enthusiasts. Whether printed, online or on the air, each media outlet offers a different focus and perspective, based on their primary audiences.

Panel discussion and audience input will further examine how the media has represented Silver City to the local community and the world beyond. Questions for consideration include: What is the media's intent? How does it shape and strengthen our community? How has this changed through the years? 

This event is free and co-sponsored by WILL, the Western Institute for Lifelong Learning. It is also available via Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89028587966, and will be recorded and appear on Facebook and on the museum's website at www.silvercitymuseum.org.