Gangs in Virginia: Resources
and Information for Citizens of the Commonwealth
What is ‘The Big Lie: Unmasking the Truth Behind Gangs’
The full-length version of The Big Lie is now online. Click here to watch.
As
a follow up to the success of Virginia’s first anti-gang video, ‘The
Wrong Family,’ the Office of the Attorney General identified
a need to create a video for kids. After careful collaboration with
law enforcement and psychologists, ‘The Big Lie’ was produced
to expose the dark reality of gangs preying upon our children through
lies and manipulation. The video is a frank and unscripted documentary
and presents an extraordinary opportunity for pre- and early teens to
learn about the false promises gang members make to lure them into their
ranks. The
video features gang members, law enforcement, and children who speak
directly to the audience about gang recruiting methods, specific ways
kids can avoid joining a gang, and most importantly, lifestyle choices
to help them stay away from gangs. Educating our youth about the ugly
truth behind gangs and ways to stay away from gang life, gives them the
tools necessary to make positive choices.
To request a copy of the DVD, click here.
Web Vignettes
'The Big Lie' features several important messages for kids and parents. The following vignettes highlight some of the overarching themes in the video.
Resources
For parents and communities, education is a critical component to preventing gangs from thriving around the Commonwealth. Confronting the reality of criminal street gangs “head on” and providing parents, school officials, and citizen groups with the tools they need to understand the problem, is the first step in the fight against gangs. Only when we present a united educated front against gangs will we ensure a bright future for our children. Click here for a list resources in your area.