Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #108636

Cliff Akiyama, MA, Department of Legal Studies, University of Pennsylvania, 105 South 41st Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104-3018, (267) 235-9426, cakiyama@sas.upenn.edu

Within the past three years, this nation has seen the debilitating and deadly effects of terrorism in our own backyard and abroad. With so much attention placed on international terrorism, specifically al-Qaeda, domestic terrorism (gang violence) has appeared to have taken a back seat to al-Qaeda, until now. Gang violence in the API community has increased dramatically nationwide by 20% according to the DOJ since 2002. These gangs have poured into the streets, schools, community centers, and hospitals leaving the community with nowhere to turn for protection from these domestic terrorists. In Los Angeles County California alone there are 160 Asian gangs, with a membership of over 6,500. In neighboring Orange County, gang involvement has reached an all time high with over 73 documented gangs and a membership of 2,200. Even more disturbing is the increase of Asian females involved in gang activity. The author interviewed over 500 gang members out in the streets, jails, and juvenile halls, using a target questionnaire; concomitantly went a step further disguised as a gang member out in the streets of LA to experience the state of mind of having “power.” This study identified several distinct differences between Asian male and female gang members. Moreover, the author identified six contributing factors, which lead to involvement in gangs (i.e.: lack of adult supervision, breakdown of the family, victimization due to racism, culture shock, need for survival, and monetary profit).

Learning Objectives:

• The purpose of this paper is to not only inform public health personnel about Asian gang activity and how to safeguard themselves and others around them, but also encourage all of us to realize that Asian gang violence affects us regardless of socioeconomic class, gender, occupation, or geographic location. At the conclusion of the presentation, the participant should be able to identify the signs and symptoms of Asian youth gang activity. They should also be able to recognize some of the common tattoos and graffiti that are often found around the community. Moreover, the participant should be able to analyze some novel prevention programs that have worked in the Asian community.

Keywords: Asian and Pacific Islander, Youth Violence

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.