mensleepylagoon

On August 22, 1942, 22 Mexican American men and women were arrested for the murder of José Gallardo Díaz.  People v. Zammora wrongfully convicted 12 defendants, who were set free a year later. Newspapers featured these pictures in newspapers as zoot suit wearing, gang members, bringing violence to America.

women sleepy
Images like these helped create and intensify anti-Mexican hysteria and policing.

Back

Photo sources:

Police line-up, male gang members. 1942. Herald-Examiner Collection Los Angeles Public Library, California.

Police line-up, women gang members. 1942. Herald-Examiner Collection Los Angeles Public Library, California.