Gang violence is a problem across major U.S. cities, with over 21,500 gangs and 731,000 members. Gangs are responsible for about half of all homicides in major cities. The document lists several local Rhode Island gangs such as the Hanover Boyz in Providence and the Asian Outlaw Boyz in Cranston. Gangs form partly due to a lack of support systems, and offer companionship and money from illegal activities to entice new members. Gangs negatively impact communities as their criminal activities are tolerated more than law enforcement.

1. Gang ViolenceMax and Chris

2. Gang ViolenceGang violence is a problem in every major city in the United States and membership is on the rise. According to the Department of Justice's 2005 National Gang Threat Assessment, there are at least 21,500 gangs and more than 731,000 active gang members. While gangs are less prevalent in rural areas, in major cities, gang violence is responsible for roughly half of all homicides.

3. Can you name any of these common Gang signs?3.4.1.2.6.7.8.5.11.12.10.9.13.14.15.16.

4. Local Gangs…Hanover Boyz-West end, ProvidenceYoung Bloods-West end, ProvidenceMS-13, North end, Providence, CranstonAlmighty Latin King Nation, ProvidenceLaos Pride, WoonsocketTiny Raskal Gang, West end, Lowell Mass. Asian Outlaw Boyz, Cranston

5. Have you or anyone you know ever been effected by gang violence?If you knew any of the signs just shown, you obviously have…

6. How do gangs form?Often, the people forming the gangs grew up living in fear from other gangs or from corrupt law enforcement agencies…They usually start out with a “steal from the rich, and give to poor” attitude, but it usually develops into serving the needs of themselves only.

7. Who joins gangs?The 1999 Youth Gang Survey disclosed… 47percent of gang members are Hispanic 31 percent are Black13 percent White7 percent Asian2 percent “other”

8. Why would you even join a gang, knowing everything that goes on there?Many times, people don’t have a choice…It’s either join or die…But gangs do offer a sense of companionship, which entices people to join. Many who join gangs, grew up with little love from parents and/or friends.

9. Why join a gang? con’t…Gangs offer money to those who need it, by doing gang related work (very often illegal work) including… a. Bribes/loans b. Armed robbery c. Hits(murder for money) d. Collecting bribes/loans

10. Who is effected?When gangs grow, they effect everyone around them. The people depend on them for money, and often the gangs hold higher authority than law enforcement…This develops a hierarchy system and creates a loyal following.The people believe what the gangs are doing is right.

11. Where can we find gang culture in East Greenwich?Violent video games such as Grand theft Auto and Street KingsTV shows such as The Sopranos, Sons of Anarchy, can you name any else?