Indigenous Gangs and Gang Research

AbstractIndigenous gangs in the United States and Canada share similar histories and characteristics. It is often proposed that gangs in these communities result from the ongoing discrimination and marginalization of these groups from mainstream society. The information available regarding these groups indicates many similarities with gangs in general. While general gang prevention and intervention programs have been suggested, many also argue that culturally specific programming is needed to eradicate these groups from Indigenous communities. However, more evaluation and research are required to fully assess the situation among this population. A lack of recent comprehensive examinations prevents us from fully understanding the scope and nature of gangs and thus how to best address these groups for Native communities. To fully understand the impact of gangs on Indigenous populations, more research is needed.