In an unexpected union first reported in article written by Occupy Atlanta participant Tim Franzen, two rival gang members have put aside their differences and are now sharing a tent at the Occupy Atlanta demonstration. Why? Shabaka Addae Guillory, a 20-year-old who joined the Crips at age 14, and Sherrod Britton, a 29-year-old Blood member, say their commitment to jobs, health care and affordable higher education outweighs their conflicting affiliations.
The Huffington Post reports:
"I saw him in the park, saw his colors," Guillory told Franzen. "There was no mean mug or rivalry because we realized that what's happening here is so much bigger then gang rivalry."
Both men were attracted to the protest and its purpose. Guillory joined the movement after hearing about it on the news. Britton, who was passing the demonstration one day, said he stopped to get more information and never left.
"I stayed for the common cause, speaking for the people," Britton said. "I feel strongly that we have the right to jobs, health care, and affordable higher education."
This isn't the first time the rival gangs have put their problems aside to fight for a common cause. In August 2010, both active and former members of the gangs came together for the Heal the Hood Peace March in Denver.
Read more at the Huffington Post.
In other news: Accuser to Cain: Admit It and Apologize.