In 1942, the Sleepy Lagoon case became one of the most racially charged trials in U.S. history. Twenty-two Mexican American youths—mostly teenagers, many just 17—were tried together for the death of José Díaz, even though no witness placed them at the scene and the cause of death was never proven. A biased judge and jury shaped the proceedings, and 12 defendants were sent to San Quentin (nine with sentences of five-to-life and three with life sentences).

This documentary by UC Santa Cruz’s Bob Giges centers on Alice McGrath, who was moved by the injustice and dedicated herself to the defense effort. As executive secretary of the Sleepy Lagoon Defense Committee, she visited the imprisoned youths, coordinated publicity and fundraising, and helped organize broad community support—from labor, Jewish, and Black allies—to sustain the appeals.

In 1944, the convictions were unanimously overturned on appeal, freeing the defendants and marking a rare victory for the Mexican American community. The case became a touchstone for the emerging Chicano movement and identity, later dramatized by Luis Valdez in Zoot Suit. McGrath’s persistence and organizing demonstrate how determined civic action can confront systemic bias—and reshape history.

Watch From Sleepy Lagoon to Zoot Suit: The Irreverent Path of Alice McGrath.