NCJ Number
183625
Date Published
2000
Length
9 pages
Annotation
A large demonstration was held in Chicago in 1993 to protest inadequate funding of Chicago's public schools; the crowd of about 10,000 protestors primarily involved black youth, and the police department claimed the demonstration was initiated and led by the Gangster Disciples (GDs), Chicago's largest street gang.
Abstract
Part of the strategy of the GD leader was to create a "legitimate" political arm by establishing a group called 21st Century VOTE (Voters Organized for Total Empowerment). It was this group that organized the demonstration, but police officials refused to grant any legitimacy to the group because of its GD affiliation. Even more important than the gang aspect, police officials acted in a discriminatory manner toward black youth participating in the demonstration. The author believes more effective ways need to be developed to reach black youth in inner cities who are traditionally attracted to street gangs. The goal should be to channel their energy into productive rather than criminal activities. 3 notes