Greeks Vs. Gangs

On Monday October 26th, we discussed gangs and how they relate to Fraternities and Sororities. Thanks to Sarah, our Secretary, here is a summary of the meeting:

We found there to be quite a number of similarities between Greeks and gangs:

• Family, support system
• Feeling of belonging
• Friends & connections
• Competitive
• Use emblems
• Initiations
• Membership for life
• Member labeled as that specific organization
• Philanthropy (Gangs started out being philanthropic as vigilantes.)

The main difference that we found between the two is that Greek organizations are seen in a positive light, whereas gangs are seen in a negative light. These positive or negative connotations given to each, respectively, might have something to do with intention and what the groups intend to do with their acts of "philanthropy". However, "positive" and "negative" are culturally subjective terms.

 

Thus, we concluded that, in some way, we might all be a part of a gang.