Graffiti frequently shows up in parks and on sides of buildings near areas that the gang hangs out in. Gangs in many areas are territorial. At this point, the gangs in Bellingham are not territorial. Members of gangs in Bellingham do not live in a specific area. Rather, members in a particular gang are scattered all over Bellingham.
Gangs also use graffiti to communicate with other gangs.
Actions like this are frequently interpreted by other gangs as a challenge. Gang actions are closely monitored if tagged over gang graffiti shows up. Graffiti is also used to advertise strength of the gang. It is not uncommon to see a gang tag, followed by a list of members. The members use their moniker instead of using first and last names.