Do Crips Not Use the Letter B?
In the world of street gangs, there are numerous myths and misconceptions that often get perpetuated without proper context. One such myth is the belief that the Crips, a notorious street gang, do not use the letter “B.” This assertion is both false and misleading, and it is essential to understand the history and origins of the Crips to dispel this myth.
The Crips originated in Los Angeles, California, in the late 1960s. The gang was founded by Raymond Washington and Stanley “Toke” Williams, who were both African American teenagers at the time. The name “Crips” was derived from the word “cripple,” which was a slang term used by African American youth in the area to describe someone who was disabled or limping. Over time, the name was adopted by the gang members as a way to identify themselves and to distinguish themselves from other street gangs.
The belief that Crips do not use the letter “B” stems from the idea that the gang’s name is a play on words, with the “B” representing the word “cripple.” However, this is not the case. The Crips use the letter “B” in their name and, like any other gang, use the letter in their graffiti, tattoos, and other gang symbols. The letter “B” is not associated with the Crips’ ideology or culture, and it is not a symbol of any particular significance to the gang.
It is important to note that the Crips, like many other street gangs, have their own set of symbols and hand signs that are used to communicate with other members. One of these hand signs is the “B” hand sign, which is made by holding up two fingers to form the letter “B.” This hand sign is used by Crips members to identify themselves and to show their allegiance to the gang.
The misconception that Crips do not use the letter “B” has likely been perpetuated by a lack of understanding of the gang’s history and culture. It is essential to approach such myths with a critical eye and to seek out accurate information before forming conclusions. By understanding the true origins and symbols of the Crips, we can appreciate the gang’s complex history and the diverse communities it has impacted over the years.
