Power Shift: How Latinos in California Transformed Politics in America

by David R. Ayón, George L. Pla (Contributor)

Power Shift charts the rise of Latino political power and its impact, from the breakthrough election of the first Mexican American to the Los Angeles City Council in 1949 to today's leadership of California and its heavyweight role in polarized America. This inspiring story recounts the origins and development of 10 LA-based Latino and Latina leaders who transformed politics and government, forging a progressive political tradition in the process. Challenging disadvantage and discrimination, these key figures integrated the city council as well as school and county boards; established Latino collective political action in the state Legislature and in Congress; restructured the U.S. Census and how California's electoral districts are drawn; and played major roles in reforming the Democratic Party, the U.S. labor movement, and U.S.-Mexico relations. Along the way, they spearheaded critical changes in public health, law enforcement, education, housing, immigration, transportation, environmental policies, and more. Based on hundreds of hours of oral interviews and expert research, Power Shift tells a personal, gripping story that has critical relevance to our political present. As the nation faces ongoing threats to democracy and equality, these leaders continue to inspire and resist.

323 pages, Paperback

Published August 8, 2018

Reviews

[Ross Miletich · Rating 5 out of 5]

More accurately a story about the rise of Latino political power in LA. Does an excellent job describing the movement from personal patronage to a larger electoral project, but somewhat constrained by its focus on biographies of elected officials. Still a good primer on mid 1950s-1990s Latino political history in LA, especially for newbies.

[JCC · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is well written for any Angeleno that wants to know about the history and formation of the L. A. Latino Political powerhouse.