Some may feel supported, but gangs cause grief — always.

According to an article from dosomething.org, most gangs make their money by committing crimes; they also claim land or neighborhoods/ blocks. Members range in ages from 8 to 22 years.  Drive-by shootings, murders, thefts, and even gang rapes can get you initiated into gang life.  Some are born into it.  Gangs are the number one reason for the increase in violence and crimes in and out of schools.  Gangs can be represented by colors, items, hats, symbols, and even tattoos.  Surprisingly, in a survey of 10 Morton students, 3 said that gangs can offer something positive to the community.

“I have not had any (close) friends or family members that I know of who are or affiliated with gangs.  But, (I think) some gangs were only started to help protect the community — like ms-13 which was started to protect Salvadorian immigrants who trailed from El Salvador to Los Angels California.   But, the leaders (get power hungry and want more.)  In junior high, I started to notice (some) friends who started to hang with gangs,”  senior Ashley Ramirez said.

“I think that all gangs are bad,” friend Kevin Gonzalez said.

Everybody has their own opinions on what they think about gangs.

“I think that when gangs were started they were good, but now that time has passed, gangs have changed their ways of thinking,” friend Chris Sanchez said.

But, for some people, it’s just a good idea to stay away from those affiliated with gangs.

“I try to stay away from people who are or affiliated with gangs and if I need to go somewhere there are gangs I try to be very cautious,” friend Angel Hernandez said.