The Black Guerrilla Family

The Black Guerrilla Family (BGF) was formed at San Quentin Prison, in California, in 1966, by former Black Panther member George L. Jackson. Influenced by radical political theorists, the BGF is based on a Marxist/Maoist/Leninist ideology. It is one of the most politically oriented of all prison gangs.

The original intent of George Jackson's organization was to rechannel the rebellious energies of African Americans away from crime toward political activity. A gradual shift occurred in the organization's primary function with the adoption of a revolutionary philosophy revolving around the idea of using violence to overthrow the racist, imperialist United States establishment. Many believe Jackson was murdered by prison officials because of his beliefs, whereas others believe he was killed in a thwarted prison escape involving violence against prison staff.

Today, the BGF's primary philosophical goals are the education of African American inmates about racism, and maintaining pride and dignity while incarcerated. The BGF's organizational goals are cultural unity, protection of African American inmates, and various criminal acts.

The BGF is a highly organized gang with a formal rank structure consisting of a central executive committee, field generals, captains, lieutenants, and soldiers. Membership entry occurs through sponsorship, [Page 65]and potential members must pass a screening committee investigation. On acceptance, a new member must take a death oath, pledging a lifelong commitment of loyalty to the BGF. It is thought that most Crips (a wellknown gang originating in Los Angeles) become automatic BGF members once they enter the prison system. Members are often tattooed with antigovernment/antiofficial symbols or identifiers specific to the BGF. Identifiers and symbols are primarily a black dragon overtaking a prison or prison tower and/or a crossed saber and shotgun with the initials B.G.F.

It is estimated that the BGF has a California inmate membership of approximately 200 individuals, 50 of whom are housed at San Quentin Prison. These members are political allies with La Nuestra Familia, Black Liberation Army, Symbionese Liberation Army, Weather Underground, and various African American street gangs. In addition to the United States political establishment, BGF enemies include the Mexican Mafia, Aryan Brotherhood, Aryan Brotherhood of Texas, and the Texas Syndicate.

Prison and law enforcement officials consider the BGF to pose a serious threat to corrections and law enforcement personnel who represent the government and the law. The BGF is the most violent and assaultive gang toward correctional staff.