The Chicano Moratorium against the Vietnam War was organized by various Chicano groups to address the concerning number of Mexican-American casualties in the Vietnam conflict and to advocate against the war itself. On a hot summer day, thousands gathered at the East Los Angeles Civic Center to express their dissent, featuring speeches, cultural performances, and a peaceful march. As the day progressed, tensions with the police escalated, who were present in large numbers, evidently on high alert due to prior announcements about the event’s potential for unrest.

As the demonstration continued, violence erupted unexpectedly. Police intervention was marked by aggressive tactics, which led to chaos in the streets. The situation intensified, culminating in a confrontation between demonstrators and law enforcement. Unfortunately, in the midst of this turmoil, Rubén Salazar, a prominent journalist known for his coverage of the Chicano community, was killed when a tear gas canister struck him in the head during the police crackdown. His death was a significant loss, symbolizing the larger issue of media representation for marginalized communities.

The violent clash resulted in multiple injuries and two additional fatalities, provoking local and national outcry over police brutality and the systemic issues faced by Chicanos. The public response to the moratorium highlighted the community's ongoing struggle for civil rights and justice, reinforcing the links between the anti-war movement and racial equality efforts within the United States.