Valley of Tears

The film starts by depicting the small agricultural town of Raymondville in South Texas during the late 20th century. It sets the stage for the complex struggles surrounding race relations and agricultural labor that define the community.

The documentary highlights the Texas Farm Workers strike of 1979, showcasing the plight of the Hispanic farm workers against local Anglo farmers. Archival footage emphasizes the violent racism prevalent during this period and the determination of the workers as they protested for their rights.

Scenes from the strike illustrate the intense clashes that ensued between the striking migrant workers, labor organizers, and local growers. These confrontations reveal the harsh realities the workers faced, including police brutality and systemic oppression.

The film highlights the complicity of law enforcement in these struggles, often siding with the growers. This collaboration demonstrates the systemic barriers faced by the farm workers and the challenges in their fight for justice and dignity.

Transitioning into a new narrative, the documentary details the Hispanic community's fervent efforts to elect representatives to the local school board. This campaign reflects the broader societal tensions and the resistance against the incumbent administration's backlash.

As the campaign unfolds, the ugly backlash from the existing local governance surfaces, revealing the deep-rooted prejudices and resistance faced by the Hispanic community. This tension underlines the ongoing struggle for political representation and equality.

In the 1990s, Juan Guerra emerges as a pivotal reform-minded leader within the community. His commitment to challenging entrenched racism in the local business and political spheres sets the stage for significant changes in Raymondville.

Guerra focuses on education, establishing a school for students expelled from local schools. This initiative highlights his dedication to providing opportunities for marginalized youth and reflects a proactive approach to combat systemic issues.

Through his reform efforts and community engagement, Guerra successfully gets elected as the county district attorney. His election marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Raymondville, symbolizing progress for the Hispanic community.

As the film progresses, voices from the 1979 strike reflect on the changes initiated by their struggles. These narratives serve to underscore the importance of historical context in understanding the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities.

In a poignant conclusion, Guerra reflects on the challenging progress made by the Hispanic community by 2003. He asserts that while corruption may still exist, responsibility now lies with the Hispanic community itself, showcasing an evolution in mindset.

The film serves as both a historical record and a commentary on the ongoing struggles for rights and representation faced by marginalized communities. It emphasizes the vital need for continued advocacy and awareness in the context of social justice.