Zoot Suit Riots Essay

Youth subcultures threaten the social structure of a racial hierarchy. This is clearly represented with the events that led up to the Zoot Suit Riots. Migration of distinct populations to Los Angeles from the late 1800s to the late 1940s was not embraced positively by most white residents. Instead, many used the race of the migrants as an excuse to discriminate and segregate. Pachucos were one of these subcultures that were influenced by the music and customs that were brought to Los Angeles during the African American migration. With the combination of many cultures and customs, many subcultures that questioned the racial hierarchy were created. Through music these youth subcultures shed light on what they believed was right. These migrants

It was misinterpreted in the media, making the youth attacked the aggressors, while freeing the white sailors of persecution. The Zoot Suiters were associated with juvenile delinquents when many factors are not taken into account. They were criminalized based on racial assumptions, leading to much resistance from the Zoot Suiters. Like present day Latino and African American youth ,Victor Rios noted that “both groups formed a common subculture which resisted punishment.” The disassociation with the term highlights the unjust treatment of these young men and women based on

There is a common struggle of discrimination that is based on white supremacy. Mexican Americans and African Americans have historically come together in order to combat similar experiences. The NAACP often spoke on behalf of Mexican Americans especially on the clear racial attack on them during the Zoot Suit Riots. Zoot Suiters were very diverse in that aspect, since the subculture combines the music and customs of African Americans with Mexican American customs. The two cultures intertwine and create a subculture based on existing inequality and a form of rebellion that challenges those who aim to demean their place in