American Agitators explores the remarkable life of Fred Ross, Sr., and the enduring legacy of his organizing work that thrives to this day.
Born in 1910 and raised in Los Angeles, Ross pioneered a groundbreaking approach to community organizing that improved the lives of thousands. In the 1930s, Ross worked with Dust Bowl refugees, and during WWII, he helped Japanese-Americans secure jobs and housing after their release from internment camps. After the war, Ross faced down KKK activity by organizing Civil Unity Leagues across California. He mentored Mexican-Americans and African-Americans to build voting power and challenge school segregation, which led to the successful integration of local school boards.
One of the most notable outcomes of Ross’s early work was the Mendez vs. Westminster case, where Mexican American parents sued the Orange County school districts and won. This landmark victory laid the groundwork for the Supreme Court’s decision in Brown vs. Board of Education. In the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, Ross collaborated with legendary organizers Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta to build the United Farm Workers Union.
Generations of activists, many of whom are featured in American Agitators, continue to stand on Ross’ shoulders, utilizing his innovative tactics to address issues across various sectors and causes. Throughout his life, Ross dedicated himself to mobilizing people to fight police brutality, challenge segregation, and promote voter registration and turnout. He believed in channeling anger and frustration into member-led movements that could change institutions and policies to improve the lives of ordinary people. While protests can draw attention, Ross understood that sustained change requires persistence and organization to build power and ensure people have a voice in shaping their living and working conditions.
American Agitators tells the story of how collective action, rooted in Ross’s vision, continues to combat racism, bigotry, and injustice today. It illustrates how organizing and persistence can help move the nation closer to achieving true democracy.