#327 - History of LA Part I - ZOOT SUIT - WatchThis W/RickRamos

"Another way to say 'Mexican'" - Luis Valdez's Zoot Suit

This week Mr. Chavez and I get a bit personal with a discussion of a classic in Chicano Cinema . . . 1981's Luis Valdez directed Zoot Suit. The story of Enrique "Hank" Leyvas (Reyna in the theatrical play and film) and his - and his crews' - railroading into San Quentin for the 1941"Sleepy Lagoon" Murder. In a case that was a clear abuse of the justice system, Leyvas was pushed through a trial that was little more than a circus designed to give the impression of justice. Valdez's film is photographed and performed as the play itself was produced both in Los Angeles and on Broadway. Mr. Chavez and I examine the cultural importance of the film, but also the history of Los Angeles, race-relations, and the ongoing fight for representation. This is an episode that - definitely - grabbed a hold of both of us and carried us to places that deserve discussion, but which are so often ignored. Take a listen. We think you may learn a li'l bit about a hidden history.

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