God First, Everyone Else Second, Outside Ain't Cool: Inside the Vice Lord Gang

The Vice Lord Gang, one of the most notorious and enduring street gangs in the United States, has a complex and multifaceted history that spans over seven decades. Founded in the 1950s on the South Side of Chicago, the gang has evolved from a small group of neighborhood young people to a global organization with tentacles reaching into cities and towns across America. Yet, despite its notorious reputation, the Vice Lords remain a deeply mysterious entity, with many people unsure of what drives the gang's behavior and motivations.

One thing is certain: the Vice Lords have a distinct culture and language, rooted in codes and hand signs that have been passed down through generations. This culture is a key part of the gang's identity, and its members take great pride in adhering to the Vice Lord tradition. But what exactly does this culture entail, and how does it shape the gang's behavior? In this article, we'll delve into the world of the Vice Lords, exploring the history, symbols, and language of this enigmatic organization.

History of the Vice Lord Gang

The Vice Lord Gang was founded in the 1950s by Donald "King" English, a charismatic and calculating leader who sought to create a new kind of gang – one that was both disciplined and ruthless. English drew inspiration from earlier gangs, such as the Black P. Stone Nation, but he also incorporated elements of the Folk Nation, a loose alliance of African American gangs that had emerged during the 1960s. The result was a gang that blended elements of both – disciplined and organized, yet ruthless and violent.

Over the years, the Vice Lord Gang has expanded its reach, establishing chapters in cities and towns across the United States. Today, the gang has become a global entity, with tentacles reaching into cities as far-flung as Los Angeles, New York, and London.

Origins of the Vice Lord Gang Signs

The Vice Lord Gang Signs, also known as the "Vice Lord Hand Signs," are a crucial part of the gang's culture and identity. These signs, which are often flashed or tapped to identify members or signal allegiance, date back to the early days of the gang. According to gang historians, the original signs were developed by English himself, who drew inspiration from African American traditions of signifying and storytelling.

For example, the classic "Vice Lord" sign, which involves extending the thumb and index finger in a V-shape while tucking the other fingers behind, is said to represent the gang's name and motto: "God First, Everyone Else Second, Outside Ain't Cool." This sign is often flashed by gang members to signal their allegiance and connection to the gang.

Code of the Vice Lord GangLanguage and Etiquette of the Vice Lord Gang

The Vice Lord Gang has its own distinct language and etiquette, which is rooted in a blend of African American Vernacular English and gang slang. Members use a range of terms and phrases to communicate with one another, often peppered with aggressive or assertive language. For example, they might use the term "squad" to refer to their gang members or "haters" to describe perceived enemies.

The gang also has its own unique way of addressing one another, using terms such as "God First" or "VL" (Vice Lord) to refer to the gang itself. Members often use these phrases in conversation to signal their allegiance or connection to the gang.

Hand Signs and Signals

In addition to the classic "Vice Lord" sign, the gang has a range of other hand signs and signals that are used to communicate with one another. These signs often involve subtle gestures or movements, such as tapping the hand or extending the thumb and index finger in a specific way.

For example, the " VL salute" involves extending the thumb and index finger in a V-shape while tucking the other fingers behind. This sign is often used to signal respect or allegiance to the gang.

One of the most recognizable Vice Lord hand signs is the "32-degree angle," which involves extending the index finger and thumb at a 32-degree angle. This sign is said to represent the gang's name and symbol.

Rank Structure and Hierarchy

The Vice Lord Gang has a strict rank structure and hierarchy, which is based on a membership system that rewards loyalty and service. Members are divided into different ranks, with higher ranks earning greater respect and authority within the gang.

The different ranks of the Vice Lord Gang include:

1. **God First** (GF) - The highest rank in the gang, reserved for the most senior and respected members.

2. **King** (K) - A high-ranking position within the gang, responsible for leading specific chapters or factions.

3. **General** (G) - A mid-ranking position responsible for overseeing local gang activities.

4. **Squaddie** (S) - A junior member, often responsible for carrying out menial tasks or serving as a lookout.

5. **Recruit** (R) - A new member, still learning the ways of the gang and expected to prove themselves through loyalty and service.

Violence and Crime

The Vice Lord Gang has a long history of violence and crime, with members involved in a range of activities from armed robbery to murder. According to law enforcement, the gang is responsible for a significant percentage of violent crimes in cities where they operate.

Initiation and Proselytizing

Joining the Vice Lord Gang is a serious business, with new recruits undergoing a rigorous initiation process. This process often involves tasks such as graffiti, robbery, and other crimes, designed to test the recruit's loyalty and commitment to the gang.

Once initiated, members are expected to recruit new members to the gang, often through coercion or force. This process is an important part of the gang's growth and expansion, as it helps to spread the gang's influence and cement its reputation.

Counter-Narrative and Cultural Significance

The Vice Lord Gang has a complex and multifaceted cultural significance, with both detractors and defenders contesting its impact on society. Some argue that the gang is a symbol of black resistance and rebellion, while others see it as a destructive force that perpetuates violence and crime.

The gang's use of hand signs and symbols is also a point of contention, with some seeing it as a form of cultural expression and others as a code of communication for gang members.

As one Vice Lord member noted, "Our hand signs and symbols are a part of our culture and tradition. They're a way of showing respect and allegiance to the gang, and they're not just about being a gang member – they're about being part of something bigger than yourself."

Law Enforcement and Response

Law enforcement agencies have long targeted the Vice Lord Gang as a major threat to public safety. In cities across America, police have worked to disrupt gang operations, arresting and prosecuting gang members for their crimes.

However, some critics argue that these efforts have been overly aggressive, leading to increased gang violence and displacement. As one community organizer noted, "The police may be trying to take down the gang, but they're also displacing the very people they're trying to help."

Legacy and Impact

The Vice Lord Gang has left a lasting legacy on American cities and culture. From the mean streets of Chicago to the boulevards of Los Angeles, the gang's influence can be seen in graffiti, fashion, and music.

For better or worse, the Vice Lord Gang has shaped the urban landscape and the lives of countless individuals. As one Vice Lord member reflected, "We may be a gang, but we're also a part of the community – and we're here to stay."