Pink Moan

October 21st, 2008 by Gnat

More and more I’m becoming convinced that everything can essentially be boiled down to marketing: religion, politics, war, even peace. Now I can include gang warfare under that umbrella or marketing, too. Gangs really are the ultimate marketing vehicle, what with their slogans, mottos, hand maneuvers, insignias and uniforms. Check out this article:

Raid targets Mongols motorcycle gang

Of special interest is this key detail regarding the raid: “In an unusual maneuver, the feds are also seeking to seize control of the Mongols’ trademarked name, which is typically accompanied by its cherished insignia — a ponytailed Genghis Khan-like figure riding a chopper.” Says US Attorney General Thomas P. O’Brien: “Not only are we going after the Mongols’ motorcycles, we’re going after their very identity.” That means that any individual found sporting the Mongols’ logo could be guilty of trademark violation and have the offending item seized on the spot.

Yes folks, this may be the most interesting convergence of business and outlaw biker gangs since the Hells Angels (Hells Angels Motorcycle Incorporation, an actual incorporated entity) sued Disney for Trademark Dilution and Infringement.