Recognizing Tattoos Linked to Gang Activity: What You Need to Know
Tattoos are a form of personal expression, often reflecting a person’s identity, beliefs, or experiences. People get tattoos for various reasons, such as to honor their heritage, commemorate a significant life event, or simply because they appreciate the art form. While tattoos have been a part of human culture for centuries, their meaning and acceptance can vary widely. In some societies, tattoos are still viewed with suspicion or disapproval.
However, it’s important to recognize that certain tattoos go beyond personal expression and can be linked to more dangerous affiliations, particularly gang activity. These tattoos often contain specific symbols, numbers, or imagery that carry significant meaning within gang culture. They might indicate a person’s loyalty to a gang, their rank within the organization, or serve as a warning to others, including rival gangs and law enforcement.
Understanding the meanings behind these tattoos can be crucial for safety. Here’s an overview of some common gang-related tattoos that you should be aware of:
1. Numbers “14” and “88”
The numbers “14” and “88” are often associated with Neo-Nazi and white supremacist ideologies. The number “14” typically refers to the “Fourteen Words,” a phrase coined by white supremacist David Lane: “We must secure the existence of our people and a future for white children.” The number “88” is a numerical code for “Heil Hitler,” with “H” being the eighth letter of the alphabet. These numbers are commonly tattooed by members of white supremacist groups like the Aryan Brotherhood, signaling their extreme beliefs and allegiance.
2. Spiderweb Tattoo
A spiderweb tattoo is often seen on the elbow, neck, or other prominent areas of the body. In the context of gang culture, particularly within prison environments, a spiderweb tattoo can symbolize the amount of time a person has spent behind bars. Each strand of the web may represent a year of incarceration, making it a marker of criminal history. However, it’s important to note that not all spiderweb tattoos carry this meaning. Some individuals choose this design purely for its aesthetic appeal, without any criminal connotation.
3. Teardrop Tattoo
The teardrop tattoo is one of the most widely recognized symbols with a variety of meanings, depending on the individual and their background. In gang culture, a teardrop tattoo is often associated with involvement in violent crime, particularly murder. For some, it represents the loss of a fellow gang member or time spent in prison. In other cases, a filled-in teardrop can indicate that the person has killed someone, while an empty one might symbolize an attempted murder or a loved one who was killed. However, like other tattoos, the meaning can vary, and it’s crucial not to make assumptions based solely on this symbol.
4. Three Dots Tattoo
The three dots tattoo is typically found on the hands or around the eyes and is often associated with gang culture or a criminal lifestyle. In Spanish-speaking communities, it might symbolize “mi vida loca,” or “my crazy life,” reflecting a rebellious or non-conformist attitude. This tattoo can also represent the phrase “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil,” which is sometimes linked to a code of silence in criminal organizations. While it’s a common gang-related tattoo, some people may wear it for reasons unrelated to gang activity.
For Ingredients And Complete Cooking Instructions Please Head On keep on Reading (>)
