SXSW 2019

Gangs, Entrepreneurs & Beer- Stopping the Violence

Description:

Sounds a bit crazy, but American gangs (think Bloods, Crips, GD, etc.) more closely resemble college fraternities than organized crime. Crazier sounding still, these gangs have written mission statements, vision statements and key values that all of us would be proud to align with.

Not as surprising, gang members are resilient people with critical business skills like sales, operations, finance and leadership. They’re an unused workforce, a potential change agent with strong influence in the inner cities.

TRU Colors Brewing is an example of startups tackling big social issues. The Company was founded by and employs primarily active gang members. And aside from making great beer, the company is committed to uniting rival gangs and stopping violence across America.

And it’s working!


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Takeaways

  1. Can gangs be flipped upside down and become positive organizations within America's inner cities?
  2. Can one person really make a difference?
  3. Can TRU Colors create a national movement that successfully unites rival gangs and stops street violence?

Speakers


Organizer

George Taylor, CEO, TRU Colors Brewing


Meta Information:

  • Event: SXSW
  • Format: Panel
  • Track: Social & Global Impact
  • Track 2
  • Level: Beginner


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