Gangs Are Not the Way to Go

By Marilyn Miller,M. Ed. AndExecutive Director ofDaCipher 360 We are nearing the end of the school year and summer vacation is rapidly approaching. Young people across the country will have extra time on their hands, time that they may spend being adventurous, possibly in a negative way. This is a time when some of you may be lured into joining a gang. After spending time with incarcerated individuals, some who have been involved with gangs, I have learned somewhat on how gangs operate. You may be promised loyalty from the gang. Then after the gang, all but, beats the life out of the new recruit, the recruit is allowed to become a member of the gang. The new member is unaware that the promise of loyalty is a one way agreement that the new guy makes to the gang. You hold up your end of the bargain to be loyal to the gang, but when everything hits the fan, during some illegal activity, it is usually every person for them-selves. If you happen to be the only one apprehended, you will most likely be charged with that case. Then you have to decide if you are willing to turn on anyone in the gang, knowing that you will be in trouble with the gang members. There could be retaliation from the gang or anyone in the gang who was not caught. There are gang members already incarcerated and gang members on the outside. So there is no real safe place in this situation. If this makes you have second thoughts about joining a gang, go to someone you trust and tell them the situation. Ask for help. Gangs are not the family, fun and protection you may think they are. GANGS – Somewhat easy to get into but difficult to get out of. Don’t put your life in jeopardy.