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Gang tattoos are some of the most controversial, intricate, and visually-symbolic forms of body modification ever conceived. More than any other form of body art, gang tats are explicitly about the group identification that the tattoo explicitly implies for the person wearing it. Gang tattoos are really nothing new. In Ancient Greece spies would tattoo themselves so they could identify each other as their paths criss-crossed. And Polynesian warriors wore an ancient form of gang tattoos in which they could identify friend and foe during battle to avoid unnecessary confrontations. But when most people think of gang tattoos, they think of a nefarious criminal group using tattoos to declare allegiances. In this context, one of the oldest examples this is of the Yakuza (Japanese Mafia), who would get a black ring around the arm for each crime they committed and a tattoo design that would cover their entire back and arms to show their commitment to the clan.
Modern gang tattoos in America have become a form of body art code that rival gangs, and even law enforcement, can use for identification. Many are done in prison with crude tattoo machines devised from hollowed-out pens, small motors, and a guitar string acting as a conduit for the ink. Some of the most common forms are the swastika and “WP” for the White Power movement, an eagle holding a snake for the Mexican Mafia, and a “BGF” tattoo representing the Black Guerilla Family. Those interested in gang tattoos should be aware of the consequences that come with this emotionally-charged form of body art. Gang tattoos are rarely chosen because they look cool. They can often lead to violent situations simply because of the way the tattoo is interpreted. Be careful when getting one of the these. |
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