Street
politics
What does politics mean?
The unwritten rules of race, gang, and territory that dictate where you sit, who you talk to, and how conflicts are handled.
"Break the politics and even your own car will turn on you."
Origin
Repurposing of 'politics' for the yard's power structure.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'politics' mean in prison?
It refers to the unwritten rules of race, gang, and territory that govern inmate behavior, dictating where you sit, who you talk to, and how conflicts get handled.
Why do prison politics matter so much?
Breaking the politics can turn even your own group, or 'car,' against you. Following them is essential to staying safe and accepted on the yard.
Is this the same as regular politics?
No. It borrows the everyday word 'politics' but repurposes it entirely for the yard's power structure and racial and gang hierarchy, not government or elections.
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