By: HISTORY.com Editors
Thousands of Mexican American anti-war activists march in Chicano Moratorium
On August 29, 1970, more than 20,000 Mexican Americans march through East Los Angeles to protest the Vietnam War. The Chicano Moratorium, as this massive protest is known, is peaceful until the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department enter Laguna Park, sparking violence and rioting that led to three deaths. The Chicano Moratorium is now remembered both as the tragic end of one stage of Chicano activism and as a moment that galvanized and inspired a new generation of activists.
The march was planned as an entirely peaceful demonstration in support of peace and in protest of the Vietnam War, which claimed Latino lives at a disproportionately high rate. As demonstrators assembled in the park, the owner of a nearby liquor store called the police on some Chicano customers in the fear that they might begin shoplifting. When the sheriff’s department responded, it assumed the protest had led to looting, and before long the police were storming the park with tear gas. Three people died, and hundreds were arrested as riots spread throughout East LA.
Vietnam War Timeline
Whether they volunteered or were drafted, 1 out of 10 soldiers were injured or killed during Vietnam.
Among the dead was Ruben Salazar, a Los Angeles Times journalist often referred to as the voice of the local Chicano community; he was hit on the head with a tear gas canister. Salazar’s death, in particular, sparked outrage, and many people believe the police or the FBI, whose agents were present for the march, used the chaos as cover for the assassination of a prominent voice of dissent.
Many viewed the violence and Salazar’s death as a loss of innocence for the Chicano movement. For many others, however, it was the beginning of a lifetime of activism and a moment that would forever encapsulate the community’s struggle for racial equality. Many prominent Chicano artists, activists and politicians were present at the rally. The former Laguna Park is now called Ruben F. Salazar Park.
Also on This Day in History
Discover more of the major events, famous births, notable deaths and everything else history-making that happened on August 29th
Related
Hispanic History
9 videos
Chicano activists took on a name that had long been a racial slur—and wore it with pride.
As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico is neither a state nor an independent country—and politics over its status remain complicated.
These sites honor Hispanic Americans’ enduring legacy.
About the author
HISTORY.com works with a wide range of writers and editors to create accurate and informative content. All articles are regularly reviewed and updated by the HISTORY.com team. Articles with the “HISTORY.com Editors” byline have been written or edited by the HISTORY.com editors, including Amanda Onion, Christian Zapata, Cristiana Lombardo and Adrienne Donica.
Fact Check
We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us! HISTORY reviews and updates its content regularly to ensure it is complete and accurate.
Citation Information
- Article Title
- Thousands of Mexican American anti-war activists march in Chicano Moratorium
- Author
- HISTORY.com Editors
- Website Name
- History
- Date Accessed
- October 21, 2026
- Publisher
- A&E Television Networks
- Last Updated
- August 25, 2026
- Original Published Date
- August 27, 2020
