Prison is a world of its own with each facility having an arguably “functional” community, culture, and hierarchy structured by race, gangs, and/or crimes. The many men and women who make up prison communities hardly refer to themselves, and address others, by their “government” name – the name that’s on their I.D. To do so can be seen as disrespectful, obtrusive, and you’ll come across as being suspect. So instead, we use monikers (nicknames).
Using a moniker might be seen by some as a way to keep others out, not letting them know how you truly feel, and what’s honestly going through your head. Essentially, it can be likened to a mask or even a persona we uphold while incarcerated as a way to steel and protect ourselves. In prison no one asks if you’re okay or how’s your mental health, and if they do, they won’t get an honest answer.
We put up this front like we’re tough 24/7 as way to keep people away and at a distance. Using your true name is too personal for many and I think people tend to see the use of a true name as an invitation to something. It can also be thought as a sign of weakness or opportunity, because if you don’t use a moniker then that likely means you aren’t involved in prison politics, gang affiliated or belong to a car (a group based on race, views, beliefs, etc).
Most of us come to prison with monikers, but some earn them while in prison and earning a moniker can be costly. Personally, when I was incarcerated at the age of 14 or 15 I had beaten up someone over rival gang drama. It earned me the name Boy Greez or B.G. for short. It also earned me additional charges and another 6 months added to my sentence.
The name has been with me ever since, but was it worth it? Nah. Truth is, a lot of the younger prison population ends up mislead, persuaded and pressured to fight, and do other activities all for the sake of being seen as “down”, “with the shit”, “reputable” or for a sense of acceptance through earning a moniker.
However, going by and/or obtaining a moniker can provide someone with a sense of belonging and acceptance. These names can be representative of an individual’s personality, habits, where they’re from, their affiliations, and beliefs. They can even be lighthearted and somewhat humorous, such as an old man who gets around using a walker might be called “Hot-Rod” as a jab at how slow he moves.
Lastly, names can also be used to exploit, expose, shame, and ostracize people. Example: If an individual is known in prison for raping others than he will forever be known as a “Booty Bandit”. I admit, the name sounds silly, but it carries a very serious and unshakable truth and reality about the individual. Most names used to shame and ostracize are given to those with crimes against women and children.
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