American Agitators captures the remarkable power of collective organizing in the U.S. through the groundbreaking work of Fred Ross, Sr, as well as those he mentored, including icons such as Dolores Huerta, Cesar Chavez, his son Fred Ross, Jr, and current day organizers, all of whom have devoted their lives to the pursuit of justice and equality. For over 50 years, Ross led an innovative grassroots approach that has improved the lives of millions and continues to influence organizing strategies today.

Beginning in the 1930s, Ross organized Dust Bowl refugees. Then during World War II, he helped Japanese-Americans find jobs and housing after their release from the internment camps. In the face of KKK activity after the war, Ross organized civil unity leagues in California by mentoring Mexican Americans and African Americans to build their voting power to challenge segregation in schools, which led to the successful integration of local school boards across California's Citrus Belt. The most dramatic outcome of his early work helped to lay the foundation for the Supreme Court's decision in Brown vs. Board of Education.

Throughout the 1950s, '60s, and '70s, Ross worked with legendary organizers Cesar Chavez, Dolores Huerta, and the United Farm Workers, earning their respect through the irrefutable evidence of his experience and efficacy of his tactics. Ross' unique ability to cross social and political boundaries and relate seemingly disparate issues continues to inspire new generations of organizers. American Agitators takes viewers from Ross to present-day movements that implement the same principles of community organizing he pioneered, such as: Fight for 15 organizers in Atlanta, GA demanding an increase in minimum wage and unionization across the South; hotel workers in Las Vegas, NV organizing for fair wages and to get out the vote; and teachers, families, and community members in Oakland, CA forging a fair contract with the school district.

Fred Ross dedicated his life to organizing and mobilizing people to challenge police brutality, fight segregation, and organize voter registration and voter turnout campaigns. He channeled anger and frustration into building member-led movements to change institutions and policies to improve the lives of ordinary people. He worked from the understanding that while protests can draw attention to create sustainable change, persistence and organization are required to build power and give people a voice in the decisions that shape their living and working conditions.

American Agitators tells a story of how collective action can combat racism, bigotry, and injustice and help move towards a true democracy. The documentary demonstrates the power of member-led movements built through personal contact, listening, methodical follow-up, and an understanding that there are no shortcuts to true people power.