Question 1. Gangs’ considerations

Greek organizations and motorcycle clubs are not considered gangs because they do not engage
in criminal activities or violence as part of their organizational activities. These groups have
clear and well-defined structures, codes of conduct, and membership requirements (Durán &
Campos, 2020). They are also recognized and registered organizations that operate under legal
and institutional frameworks. Unlike gangs, Greek organizations, and motorcycle clubs have a
positive social function, such as providing social support, community service, and recreational
activities for their members. (To get help with your assignment; get in touch with  Homework
Help and Answers )

Question 2. The emergence of African American gangs

African American gangs emerged in response to social and economic marginalization in the
early 20th century, providing protection, identity, and support to members who faced
discrimination and violence. The Great Migration fueled gang growth due to poverty,
unemployment, and alienation in urban ghettos. African American militant groups like the
“Black Panther Party” and the Nation of Islam occupied a crucial position in de-escalating and
escalating violence between gangs, advocating for political and social empowerment, and
providing social services to address the root causes of violence (Cingranelli et al., 2022).
However, some militant groups used violence to enforce their agenda, leading to more violence.

Question 3. Acculturation and gang membership among Latinos

Acculturation refers to the process by which individuals adopt a new society's cultural norms and
values while maintaining some aspects of their original culture. Acculturation can lead to gang
membership among Latinos, especially those facing social and economic marginalization in their
new society (Munoz & Venta, 2021). Gangs may provide a sense of belonging and identity for
Latinos who feel alienated from their original and dominant cultures. Gangs may also offer
protection, social support, and economic opportunities for Latinos who face discrimination,
poverty, and limited opportunities in their new society.

Question 4. Two gangs

In 1980s MS-13, emerged as transnational coterie in Los Angeles. The gang is composed
primarily of Salvadoran immigrants and has a presence in the United States, Central America,
and other countries. MS-13 is known for its violent crimes like drug trafficking, murder, and
extortion. The gang members use tattoos, hand signs, and graffiti to identify themselves. MS-13
has a decentralized structure, and its cliques operate independently but share the same name and
symbols.

MS-13 and the Mexican Mafia are criminal gangs that engage in illegal activities and have a
strong presence in the United States. They differ in their organizational structures, with MS-13
being more decentralized and the Mexican Mafia being more hierarchical. MS-13 is a
transnational gang, while the Mexican Mafia has a more localized presence.

Moreover, both gangs fit the definition of a gang as a group of individuals who engage in
criminal activities such as drug trafficking, extortion, and violence. They use various means to
identify themselves and maintain their presence, such as tattoos, hand signs, and graffiti.

Question 5.

Gang graffiti serves multiple purposes, such as marking territory, sending messages to rival
gangs, and displaying gang allegiance. Latino gang graffiti often includes the gang's name and
symbols and religious imagery such as the Virgin Mary or crosses. African American gang
graffiti is often more stylized and includes intricate designs and lettering referencing specific
neighborhoods or blocks. Both types of gang graffiti serve as a form of communication within
the gang. They are used to assert dominance over a particular area, warn rival gangs, and leave
messages for fellow gang members.

Question 6.

Gang members use the internet and social media for various reasons, including communication,
recruitment, and self-promotion. Social media has allowed gang members to reach a wider
audience and expand their network beyond their immediate communities. However, it has also
increased the visibility of gangs, making it easier for law enforcement to track their activities.
Social media has also been used to document and glorify gang violence, which can lead to more
retaliatory violence. The use of social media has also led to increased surveillance and
infiltration by law enforcement, which has disrupted some gang activities.

Question 7.

The video "Inside the Crips: Life Inside L.A.'s Most Notorious Gang" provides a deep
understanding of the Crips gang, including its origins, beliefs, and factors that lead individuals to
join the gang (National Geographic, 2022). The documentary explores how poverty, lack of
opportunity, and discrimination can lead to gang membership and the role of family and

community in shaping individuals' choices. It also delves into the complex hierarchy and codes
of conduct within the gang, providing insight into the inner workings of gangs in general.

The video is relevant to class because it examines the social and cultural factors contributing to
gang formation and maintenance. It serves as a warning about the dangers of gang activity and
highlights the hardships and struggles that gang members’ face daily. This video can inform
others about gangs and gang culture and spark discussions about poverty, inequality, and social
justice.

Educators and law enforcement officials can use this video to ensure there is awareness about the
uncertainty of gang activity and to educate young people about the risks and consequences of
joining a gang. Overall, the video offers valuable insights into the complexities of gang culture
and the reasons why individuals might choose to become involved in gangs. I chose this video
because it provides an informative and honest portrayal of gang life, which can help others
understand the reality of this issue.