I wrote this book because in a lot of fan fictions for On My Block I tend to stop reading due to one or more of the following reason: the incorrect portrayal of gangs, racist portrayal of different gangs, and glorification of gangs.
In some books characters will have white or Latino main characters be a part of the Prophets which I personally believe is incorrect. The two gangs in the show are divided by race and that is seen in real gangs. When someone has a nonblack MC be Prophet it's not very realistic (especially when their relative is suppose to be the 'leader.')
There are some very racist portrayal of the rivalry between Los Santos and Prophets. In many books the Prophets are dehumanized and portrayed as criminals who kill for no reason. In comparison, the Santos are portrayed as human and (sometimes) their actions are attempted to be justified. I understand that in the show we never get the view point of a Prophet and only of Los Santos. However, there must be some sort of recognition that everyone is in the same situation at the end of the day.
Lastly, there's a glorification of gangs and the wrong aspects are praised in OMB books. Gangs are founded on creating a brotherhood for people of color in a specified community to protect each other when law enforcement won't. That should be emphasized (kinda I don't know how to explain it.) Yes, drugs were introduced and allowed for the criminalization of those in gangs. However, that should not be glorified because these are the things that take away the point of gangs, it reinforces the stereotypes, and like why do you think it's cool?
I think the show does a great job at avoiding doing all of this while subtly showing how race plays a role in gangs. They don't have a preference for either gang they just happen to be telling the story of kids who live in Los Santos territory.
If you have questions, comments, or just want to talk about please don't be afraid to comment or message me. This is something I enjoy having open conversations about and would love to talk about.
Remember to think before you write or read.
YOU ARE READING
safe || on my block
Fanfic"Why can't we go back to the way we used to be?" "Because we're not sixteen anymore! Freeridge may be forever for you, but it's not for me."
