Rising Souls, Singing Scorpions

The story of Ramon "Chunky" Sanchez is emblematic of the dramatic changes in the Chicano community within his lifetime (1951-present), as both he and his community have struggled to create a new identity within the U.S.-Mexico borderlands. In the face of massive demographic, economic, and political changes, Sanchez has survived and thrived, using music to challenge the sometimes deplorable forces shaping the life of his community. This project explores the critical importance which music is played in the Chicano movement, energizing an emerging community and moving individuals to reach beyond their local concerns. Rising Souls, Singing Scorpions, follows Sanchez from his rural, farm worker origins to the formation and development of his community-based musical group - Los Alacranes, meaning "the scorpions". Utilizing interviews, location footage and segments of musical performance in various venues, the film explores Sanchez's activism in the Chicano social justice movement. This project examines the vital role which his music played in energizing the spirit of the poor, marginalized community, transforming many into active participants in the struggle for civil rights.