I've been reading about a new tourist attraction in South Central LA. That's right, for $65 anyone can take an escorted tour through the rough-'n-tumble streets that is "Gang Culture".
I first thought it was an awesome idea. What better way to scare anyone out of a certain lifestyle than to show them the effects of some people's decisions?
Then I started to read more about it and the more I do, the more the idea enrages me. Ex-gang member Alfred Lomas' hope is to rebuild his community by donating any income gained through the Gang Tours back to the community. I understand the thought he had is probably genuinely loving and caring but I'm not sure I agree with the means to the end.
The website, http://www.lagangtours.com/, glamorizes the lifestyle. One example is the list of famous prisoners at the LA County Jail:
Robert Downey Jr., Rick James, Suge Knight, etc.
According to the LA Times, the tour also includes such events as a dance-off between community members. The winner gets cash prizes from tourists!
Other than being a continuation of the stereotyped gang lives actors portray in Hollywood, I also am not sure where the revenue is really going. If it goes back into the community and a large percentage of that community is made up of gang members (the tour focuses on Florencia 13, Crips, Bloods and Grape St) wouldn't the money end up in the hands of gang members anyway?
I truly hope I am wrong and Lomas succeeds and pulls his beloved community out of poverty, violence and hatred.
Let me know what you think. I'd love to have someone change my mind.
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This is so interesting! I might re-post it on my blog with credit to you, of course!
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