This is nothing but another bad hustle, unfortunately from an ex-gang member. I feel similarly to this as I did about the Lower Ninth Ward tours in New Orleans (see article “Refugees to Evacuees to Tourist Spectacles, more of my post-Katrina anger“). Total exploitation of people. Watch this news clip.
If you saw it, the reporter, Leanne Suter from ABC 7 in Los Angeles, mentions that this guy has negotiated a cease fire from 3 gangs already to help ensure safety…between the hours of 10am and 1pm. I heard the first part and had hope. Then, I heard the rest and was like, wtf?? Heaven forbid a tour run past 1pm.
Whether it creates jobs, opens communication, is “non-profit” (I’m not sure I buy that it’s truly a by the book non-profit) or otherwise, I think this is all around bad idea.
Thoughts??
Related Links
affrodite.net- Refugees to Evacuees to Tourist Spectacles, more of my post-Katrina anger
ABC 7- Los Angeles Gang Tours ready for tourists
LA Times- Giving tourists a look at gang culture
Neatorama- The Los Angeles Gang Tour
KTLA- LA Gang Tours slated to begin early next year
Tours by Isabelle- Post-Katrina Tour
ACORN- Tour of 9th Ward shows hope
Written from the perspective of a thirty-something African American woman, Affrodite's Adventures In Nappy Hair will make you think, laugh, cry, and take action. Check it out! Blog topics include natural hair care, African American perspectives in culture/pop culture/politics, women's empowerment, stories from Corporate America, current events, and more!
Somebody already has a nationwide idea, gangtours.com,unbelievable!
@holeymoley- a nationwide idea? unbelievable indeed!