Intro- Introduce West Side Story’s plot in 2-3 sentences. Thesis: police relations and brutality against Puerto Rican immigrants in the 50’s and 60’s. Immigrants such as Puerto Ricans face general hardships when coming to the U.S. The conflict between the Sharks vs. the Jets.

Body I- There was bias towards foreigners, especially Puerto Ricans when it came to gangs and crimes. Cops were racist and tougher against the newcomers compared to Americans (Officer Krupky’s treatment with Sharks vs. the Jets). Using the source, “I don’t think the cop is my friend”. Cops had motives and agendas against Puerto Ricans.

Body II- The Sharks need to survive, and the immigrants develop the gang as a result. They lived in slums with terrible conditions so they wanted security by working together. “Police Assailed by Puerto Ricans”. Puerto Rican leaders called them biased as 3 of them in their communities were shot and killed.

Body III- Unlike the movie, cops try to make peace with Puerto Rican communities through educational programs from the police department. As cops were taught and understanding the culture, minority rights develop, which leads to respect of the Puerto Ricans. “Police Move to Win Puerto Rican Amity”.

Conclusion- Puerto Ricans, like other immigrants faced many hardships such as the police and dealing with them everyday. West Side Story represents the daily struggles of the Puerto Ricans trying to survive in the 50’s and 60’s.