If you see a sneaker hanging from a thread in the street, this is what it really symbolizes
Have you ever wondered why some sneakers hang from electrical cables in the streets? This phenomenon, far from trivial, is intriguing and gives rise to numerous interpretations. Is it a simple game, a tribute, or a coded message? This symbol, visible in many cities around the world, hides much deeper meanings than it seems.
A mysterious tradition: where does this phenomenon come from?
This phenomenon, known as “shoefiti” (a contraction of “shoe” for footwear and “graffiti” for urban art), originated in the United States in the 1970s before spreading elsewhere. But why throw sneakers into the air to hang them from electrical wires? The reasons vary depending on the location and cultural context.
While in some areas it may be just a joke or a ritual among young people, elsewhere these hanging shoes can have much more serious connotations, ranging from territorial marking to a coded message.
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Territorial marking of gangs
In some sensitive neighborhoods, these shoes are used as a symbol of territory by gangs or criminal groups. They can indicate several things:
- Control of an area by a gang.
- The presence of illegal activities such as drug trafficking.
- A warning to other rival groups.
This type of visual cue is particularly prevalent in neighborhoods where gang conflicts are common. If you notice sneakers hanging in a high-risk area, it may be a sign to take seriously.
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A tribute to a missing person
In other contexts, hanging sneakers serves as a tribute to the deceased. This tradition is often observed in neighborhoods with high crime rates, but it can also be practiced in more peaceful settings.
- The shoes represent the life of the missing person.
- They symbolize that she rests in peace or walks in heaven .
- This act aims to leave a visible mark in memory of the deceased.
It is a gesture of respect, sometimes organized by relatives or friends of the deceased.
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