LA, The National Guard, Immigration and the Zoot Suit Riots (Some Sunday Context)

Today, as part of our "Some Sunday Context" series, Jody offers some thoughts on the story playing out in Los Angeles where the Trump administration has called in the national guard, over the objections of local officials. This is the first time something like that has happened since 1965. We've done a number of stories that include the moment where the national guard appears, and it is often just the beginning of the political and cultural fallout. We're all watching the latest from LA play out.

The, we bring you a story that may provide a little deeper context on Los Angeles as a city of immigrant communities, violence, and policing. Or at the very least, an interesting listen. Let us know what you think!

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It’s June 3rd. This day in 1943 marked the start of the “Zoot Suit Riots,” a series of skirmishes and attacks in Los Angeles targeting Mexican-Americans, who were often identified by their flashy ensembles.

Jody, Niki and Kellie are joined by Emily Spivack of “Worn Stories” to discuss the causes of the riots, how the zoot suit became a political symbol, and whether super-baggy clothes are on their way back.

Check out Emily’s “Worn Stories” book and the new series on Netflix!

Find a transcript of this episode at: https://tinyurl.com/esoterichistory

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