A Pachuco (pəˈCHo͞okō) is defined as a young Mexican-American having a taste for flashy clothes and a special jargon, usually belonging to a neighborhood gang. This is going to play an important part to Death To Pachuco.

Death to Pachuco is a new Kickstarter comic book by Henry Barajas, Rachel Merrill, and Lee Loughridge, set during the 1943 Zoot Suit Riots and the aftermath of the Sleepy Lagoon murder in Los Angeles. This Chicano noir-inspired story explores the hardships, injustices, and resilience of the Chicano community during a volatile period in history.

Barajas says that Death To Pachuco is an important story that to most is largely unknown.

It’s about honoring the
history of the Chicano community while weaving a narrative that is both timely and timeless. The Zoot Suit Riots were a pivotal moment in L.A.’s history, and we aim to shed light on the complexities surrounding it through the lens of a Chicano noir and with pictures and words.

Co-Creator and artist Merrill says that there were many levels to Death to Pachuco that involve peoples agency to exist. 

It’s also about policing people’s bodies. The zoot suit in itself is a
political statement—and the fashion plays an important role in the story we’re trying to tell.

The DTP creative team has launched their Kickstarter campaign today! Supporters can get exclusive rewards like a limited-edition cover by David Lapham, signed copies, and original artwork during the 30-day campaign.

Ahead of its release take a first look of the comic below!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

If you’re interested don’t miss out! Check out the campaign here!