[Mpls] Graffiti again

[Michael Atherton]

Don Greeley wrote:

Mr.Wilde said: 

> " I am aware of this welcome change in the law.
> However, painting over graffiti is just a white-wash,
> and doesn't address the real gang problem that the
> graffiti is only a visible symptom of."
> 
> I have to strongly disagree with Mr. Wilde's statement. Painting over
> gang graffiti is not a "white-wash". Gangsters are attempting to mark
> their territory with gang graffiti. We know from a lot of experience
> that when gangsters start marking turf, and writing over each others
> gang markers, they are trying to provoke the rival gang. Violence
> frequently follows. Painting over gang tags as quickly as possible is
> one way to help reduce the provocation, and the likelihood of gang
> violence. Gang graffiti is much more than just a symptom of the gang
> problem. 

If I remember correctly, there is research showing that
not responding to graffiti increases the deterioration of
neighborhoods.  Just think about for a while, would you
get out of your car and shop in a neighborhood that is
covered with graffiti?  In L.A. knowledgeable people
avoid such places, if they can.  In fact, knowing
about tags and gang symbols is an important means
of self-preservation.  

I always thought it was funny that every year or so
Minnesotan papers have an article about the dangers
of walking or driving on the ice, while in L.A. every
year or so there's an article about how to protect
yourself at ATMs and what to do if your car breaks down 
on the freeway. 

Michael Atherton
Prospect Park