The rivalry between the two predominant gangs of Garden Heights, the King Lords and Garden Disciples, is an important factor in the book. Several key members of the story are involved with gangs in some way and their interactions provide a nuanced narrative of how gangs affect a community. Maverick, Khalil, and DeVante all became involved with the King Lords because of the promise of family and a lack of opportunities for poor, young black men. Maverick and DeVante eventually leave because the dangers are too high. Even so, Maverick is still able to call upon members of the King Lords to protect his family when they are in danger following Starr's televised interview. At one point, Maverick organises a conversation between the gangs to stop the rioting because of how it ultimately hurts the black community.
The movie brushes on the rivalry between the gangs, but it doesn't feature it heavily in the film.