Who’s in Your Tribe?

If you’ve had a chance to listen to our episode about street culture, you know that what we’re really discussing is more street counterculture. Pushing back against the mainstream, thumbing your nose at the man and telling the establishment to suck it.

Driving a car can be a solo activity, but a typical hot rod has room for at least two. While a skateboard is a solo mode of transportation, the rider is often on his or her way to their regular spot to land that next trick or see an old friend (or both).

Being part of a tribe is not exclusive to any age, gender, creed, or nationality, although one could argue each of those are tribes themselves. It’s about finding like-minded people who get you and you get them. You’ve got their back. They get your jokes. You get the idea.

There are the tribes we’re born into and the tribes we choose. We’re talking the ones we choose, how we find them, why we identify with them and how we identify them. What flag are they flying? What signals are hidden in plain sight that the average Joe or Jane never pick up on? A crazed, fly-infested rat? A severed screaming blue hand? What gives?!

Some tribes are unwavering. The football team you’ve followed since you were a child. Your appreciation for a certain amazing cinematic achievement (like, say, 1980’s spoof Airplane!). One you’re drawn to because of a certain talent you may have. (See what we did there?)

Other tribes are temporary. You’re part of a neighborhood, then you move. You hang out with your coworkers for evening drinks, then you find a new job. You play on a kickball team and then COVID hits. Nothing lasts forever. The sands are always shifting.

So the next time you’re with friends, think about the signals that broadcast “You’re one of us.” A shirt. A tattoo. A band. And maybe, just maybe, an oddball profession like design.

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