From Sleepy Lagoon to Zoot Suit: The Irreverent Path of Alice McGrath
Update: 2025-09-16
Description
The Sleepy Lagoon case of 1942 became one of the most racially charged trials in U.S. history. Twenty-two Mexican American youths, mostly teenagers, were tried en masse for the death of José Díaz, though no witness placed them at the scene and the cause of death was never established. Denied fair treatment, they faced a biased judge and jury, with twelve sentenced to San Quentin. In this documentary film, UC Santa Cruz's Bob Giges highlights the work of Alice McGrath, who was moved by the injustice and dedicated herself to the defense effort, visiting the imprisoned youths, organizing community support, and coordinating national fundraising. In 1944, the convictions were overturned on appeal, marking a rare victory for the Mexican American community. The case, later dramatized by Luis Valdez in Zoot Suit, is remembered as a turning point in civil rights and Chicano identity. Series: "Arts Channel " [Public Affairs] [Humanities] [Show ID: 40985]
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