GANG WATCH
Parents can reduce the likelihood of their child becoming involved with gangs, and can reduce the amount of gang activity in their neighborhood. The first step in addressing gang problems in your family, school or community is overcoming fear and denial. Gangs are not a big city or inner city problem, any more than they are a problem of a particular race or culture. Gangs cross all ethnic, racial, socioeconomic, and geographic boundaries. They exist in rural, urban and suburban communities; and children see gang images reinforced and glamorized in the media and through music and fashion. As a parent, educator, or concerned community member, it is important for you to learn the signs of gang involvement and gang activity. The next step is to get involved and take action. Gangs often form along ethnic and racial lines, and generally identify themselves by a name derived from a street, neighborhood, or housing project where they are based.
