Traces over three generations an immigrant family's trials tribulations tragedies and triumphs. Maria and Jose the first generation come to Los Angeles meet marry face deportation all in the 1930's. They establish their family in East L.A. and their children Chucho Paco Memo Irene Toni and Jimmy deal with youth culture and the L.A. police in the 50's. As the second generation become adults in the 60's the focus shifts to Jimmy his marriage to Isabel (a Salvadorian refugee) their son and Jimmy's journey to becoming a responsible parent.