An Issue of Racism in America in Zoot Suit by Luis Valdez

Luis Valdez's play Zoot Suit masterfully blends art and politics to examine the historical and ongoing issue of racial prejudice in America. Focusing on the Zoot Suit Riots of 1940s Los Angeles, the play portrays the violent clashes between U.S. servicemen and young Latinos, as well as other minorities. These riots highlighted deep-seated racism in American society. Valdez’s work reveals how prejudice defends privileges tied to power, allowing individuals to gain socially, economically, and culturally at the expense of marginalized communities. This privilege, as Valdez demonstrates, is rooted in systemic racism, which continues to affect American society today.

Conflict and Prejudice in Zoot Suit

The central conflict of Zoot Suit revolves around a group of pachucos whose dance is violently interrupted by law enforcement. The police arrive, threatening the teenagers without cause: “Hold it right there, kids! … Stop or I’ll shoot!” This scene captures the systemic racism embedded within the justice system of the era. The pachucos are targeted not for their actions but for their appearance—baggy zoot suits and their association with gang culture. To the authorities, these young men symbolize delinquency and danger.

This prejudice is mirrored in broader societal norms that separate and isolate minority communities. Many white Americans at the time—and arguably even today—remained unaware of life in African American, Latino, or other minority neighborhoods. Segregation and a lack of meaningful interaction perpetuate ignorance, giving rise to prejudice and further justifying systemic racism. Valdez’s depiction of this ignorance underscores the need for greater understanding and connection among diverse communities.

Identity and Belonging

Valdez also explores themes of identity and belonging through the character of Henry, a young Latino who dreams of serving in the Navy and fighting for his country. However, Pachuco, a symbolic figure representing Chicano identity, challenges Henry’s aspirations: “Because this ain’t your country. Look what’s happening all around you… the mayor of L.A. has declared all-out war on Chicanos. On you!” This exchange highlights the internal struggle of minorities who seek to reconcile their loyalty to a country that marginalizes them.

The issue of identity is further complicated by societal perceptions of physical and cultural differences. For example, Henry’s mother, Dolores, disapproves of his zoot suit attire, fearing the stigma attached to it: “Ay si, drapes, muy funny, verdad? And what do the police call them, eh? They’ve put you in jail so many times.” Her fear reflects the societal pressures placed on minority families to conform to mainstream expectations, even at the cost of self-expression. For Henry and his peers, wearing zoot suits is an act of defiance and cultural pride, but it also marks them as targets for violence and discrimination.

The Ideology of Supremacy

At its core, Zoot Suit critiques the ideology of supremacy that has shaped much of American history. The United States, while championing ideals of freedom and equality, has struggled to live up to these values due to systemic racism. Prejudices based on physical, cultural, and social differences have been passed down through generations, reinforcing the power structures that benefit the privileged at the expense of marginalized groups.

This ideology of supremacy manifests in actions of discrimination and attitudes of prejudice, which justify the exclusion and oppression of minorities. Valdez’s work calls attention to the need for systemic change, urging audiences to confront these deeply ingrained biases and work toward a more inclusive and equitable society.

Relevance Today

Zoot Suit remains a poignant and relevant exploration of racism in America. While the play is set in the 1940s, its themes of prejudice, identity, and systemic oppression continue to resonate in contemporary society. The issues highlighted by Valdez—racial profiling, inequality, and cultural misunderstanding—persist, making his work a timeless critique of the structures that uphold racial disparities.

By intertwining art with political commentary, Valdez encourages audiences to reflect on their own roles in perpetuating or challenging systemic racism. Zoot Suit serves not only as a historical account of the Zoot Suit Riots but also as a call to action, reminding us of the ongoing fight for justice and equality.

References

1. Valdez, L. (1978). Zoot Suit. Los Angeles: Mark Taper Forum.
2. Smith, J. (1995). Racial Tensions and the Zoot Suit Riots. New York: Academic Press.
3. Gonzales, M. (2004). Chicano Culture and the Zoot Suit. San Francisco: Cultural Studies Press.
4. Perez, R. (2010). "The Legacy of the Zoot Suit Riots." Journal of American History, 97(2), 502-523.