Native-American Gangs

Summary

In this episode, host Gabe Morales delves into the complex issue of Native American gangs in the United States, reflecting on his personal experiences growing up near the Yakama Indian Reservation. He discusses the historical context of Native American communities, touching on the impacts of colonization, poverty, and addiction. Morales highlights the emergence of gangs, such as Native Pride and Native Mob, rooted in disconnection from culture and community. The episode emphasizes the need for cultural appreciation and community engagement as vital steps towards addressing gang activity, portraying the issue as a symptom of deeper societal problems rather than an isolated phenomenon.

Takeaways

• 😀 Gabe Morales discusses the presence and influence of Native American gangs in the United States and Canada.
• 😀 He shares his personal background, emphasizing his connections to Native American culture and experiences.
• 😀 Historical context is provided, highlighting European contact with Native Americans starting in 1492 and its devastating impacts.
• 😀 Poverty rates on Native American reservations, particularly the Pine Ridge reservation, are alarmingly high, with over 90% of residents living below the poverty line.
• 😀 Gang violence has emerged as a significant issue in Indian Country, often linked to a history of addiction and social disconnection.
• 😀 Prominent Native American gangs include Native Pride and Native Mob, which have evolved in response to the gang culture of urban areas.
• 😀 The origins of Native American gang culture can be traced back to the crack cocaine epidemic of the late 1980s and early 1990s.
• 😀 The influence of Mexican drug cartels on Native American reservations has led to increased drug trafficking and violence.
• 😀 Tribal leaders emphasize the need for cultural reconnection and community engagement to combat gang influence among youth.
• 😀 The majority of Native Americans are not involved in gang activities, and addressing underlying issues is crucial for positive change.

Q & A

What personal background does Gabe Morales provide to establish his credibility on the topic of Native American gangs?

Gabe Morales shares that he was born in Yakama, Washington, spent summers on the Yakama Indian Reservation, and grew up in Seattle, where he attended schools named after Native American figures. He also notes his mixed heritage, having a great-grandmother who was 100% Yakima Indian.

How does the history of European contact with Native Americans relate to current gang issues?

The transcript explains that European contact, initiated by Christopher Columbus in 1492, led to significant depopulation and suffering among Native Americans due to disease and violence, which has contributed to ongoing issues like poverty and disconnection from traditional cultures, factors that can drive gang involvement.

What are the socio-economic conditions on the Pine Ridge reservation, and how do they relate to gang violence?

Pine Ridge reservation faces extreme poverty, with over 90% of residents living below the poverty line and high unemployment rates. This environment contributes to issues like alcoholism, drug abuse, and the rise of gang violence as young people seek connection and identity.

What is the role of Chris Grant in the discussion of Native American gangs?

Chris Grant is introduced as a former Rapid City police detective and a leading expert on Native American gangs. He has collaborated with Morales on discussions regarding gang culture and violence among Native American youth.

What factors contribute to Native American youth joining gangs, according to the transcript?

Many Native American youth join gangs due to disconnection from their traditional cultures, family addiction issues, and a search for identity and community belonging, especially in environments with entrenched addiction problems.

How do Native American gangs differ from urban gangs in terms of structure and behavior?

Native American gangs often adopt the names and symbols of urban gangs but may engage in behaviors not typically seen in those gangs. Their activities are described as a hybrid form of gang behavior influenced by unique local circumstances.

What is the significance of the Native Pride gang, and how is it perceived within Native communities?

While 'Native Pride' is viewed by some as a cultural statement, it is also recognized as a gang involved in criminal activities, illustrating the complexity of gang identity among Native youth.

How have Mexican drug cartels influenced gang activity in Native American communities?

Mexican drug cartels have infiltrated Native American communities, utilizing them as distribution hubs for drugs, including fentanyl, thereby exacerbating local gang violence and contributing to the drug problem.

What are the Warrior Society and its significance in Native American gang culture?

The Warrior Society originated from the Native American Brotherhood and is involved in gang activity, especially in the Arizona Department of Corrections. It has a hierarchical structure with ranks indicated by tattoos and feathers.

What solutions does Gabe Morales propose to address gang issues in Indian country?

Morales emphasizes the importance of reconnecting Native American youth with their cultures, increasing awareness of their history, and fostering a sense of community to combat gang activity and its underlying issues.