POV Season 6 Episode 12 Sa-I-Gu
- September 10, 1993
"Sa-I-Gu" is the twelfth episode of the sixth season of POV, a documentary series that explores social issues and cultural experiences. In this episode, viewers are taken on a journey through the aftermath of the 1992 Los Angeles riots, also known as the Sa-I-Gu riots, which were sparked by the acquittal of four police officers for the beating of Rodney King.
The documentary takes a personal approach, following four Korean American women who were directly affected by the riots. Their stories are intertwined with archival footage and interviews with experts and activists who shed light on the events leading up to the riots and the aftermath that ensued.
Through the eyes of these women, viewers witness the destruction of their neighborhoods and businesses, the fear and uncertainty that engulfed their families, and the struggle to rebuild their lives in the aftermath. One woman recollects the moment she realized her business had been reduced to ashes, while another describes the emotional toll the riots took on her family.
The documentary also explores the larger context of the riots, with experts describing the history of police brutality and institutionalized racism in Los Angeles that led to the explosion of violence. Activists share their experiences fighting for justice in the aftermath, from community outreach efforts to legal battles to hold the police accountable.
"Sa-I-Gu" is a powerful exploration of the impact of systemic injustice and racism on individual lives. Through the personal stories of these Korean American women, viewers are given a glimpse into the complex and often painful legacy of the Los Angeles riots and their lasting effects on the city and its communities.