Gangster Disciples: Chicago's Shadow Government and Solutions

The Gangster Disciples Association (GDA) is a gang that has its roots in Chicago and has spread across the United States. Their presence in Chicago has been linked to the violence that plagues the city, which has one of the highest rates of violent crime in the country. In this essay, I will explore the history of the Gangster Disciples, their role in Chicago's violence, and possible solutions to this problem.

History of the Gangster Disciples Association

The Gangster Disciples Association was formed in the late 1960s by Larry Hoover and David Barksdale. The two leaders united their gangs and created a powerful organization. From their headquarters in Chicago, the Gangster Disciples spread across the country and became one of the most notorious gangs in America.

The GDA is infamous for its brutal initiation process. The member-to-be, known as a "shorty," must be beaten by other members for 31 seconds. The shorty must then take an oath of loyalty and complete various tasks to prove their allegiance to the gang.

The GDA is organized into different "sets," each with its own leaders and members. Members are required to follow strict rules, including a code of conduct that includes no snitching and no cooperation with law enforcement.

Role of the Gangster Disciples in Chicago Violence

Chicago is one of the most violent cities in America, and the Gangster Disciples are often linked to the violence. The gang has been implicated in numerous shootings, drug trafficking, and other criminal activities. The gang's hold on the city is so strong that some experts consider them to be a virtual shadow government.

The violence associated with the GDA is often targeted at rival gangs, but innocent bystanders are also caught in the crossfire. In fact, many of the city's murder victims are not involved in gangs at all. The gang's use of guns and other weapons make the violence especially dangerous.

Possible Solutions to the Problem

The problem of gang violence in Chicago is complex, with no easy solutions. However, there are some strategies that have shown promise in reducing violence.

One approach is to tackle the gang problem head-on. This could involve increased law enforcement presence in high-crime neighborhoods, targeting known gang members with increased scrutiny, and working with community groups to discourage young people from joining gangs.

Another approach is to address the root causes of gang violence. This could involve increasing access to economic and educational opportunities, providing social services such as mental health and addiction treatment, and addressing systemic issues such as racism and poverty.

Conclusion

The Gangster Disciples Association has been linked to the violence that plagues Chicago. Their influence on the city is so strong that some consider them to be a virtual shadow government. To solve this problem, it will take a multifaceted approach that addresses both the symptoms of the problem, such as increased law enforcement presence, as well as the root causes, such as poverty and lack of opportunities. Only then can we hope to break the cycle of violence that plagues Chicago and other cities.