Though many gang members do wear tattoos, some do not. Hispanic gangs frequently tattoo their arms, hands, shoulders, stomachs, back of necks and backs. The tattoo may be small or large enough to cover the entire back or stomach. Often, the gang member will have the name of his or her gang tattooed somewhere on their bodies. Unlike many Hispanic gangs, black gang members do not usually use tattoos to identify their gang membership.
Most gangs use hand signs to identify their gang and as a form of communication.
Some gangs have elaborate hand and body signals, so advanced, that they can have complete conversations without saying a word. These signs are frequently used when they don't want others to know what they are about to do. Graffiti may also be used to advertise the selling of drugs. Or as a means of erecting a memorial to a killed gang member. Friends are known or believed to be gang members 2.