Ep 1. The Myth of MS-13

In season 5 episode 1 of This is Life with Lisa Ling, titled The Myth of MS-13, host Lisa Ling delves into the infamous gang, MS-13, which has been linked to a number of violent crimes throughout the United States. The episode explores the origins of the gang, how it has evolved over time, and how it operates today.

Ling first visits a prison in El Salvador where she speaks with former MS-13 members who are serving time for violent crimes. She learns about the gang's early days in Los Angeles, where it was formed in the 1980s by Salvadoran immigrants who were looking for protection from other gangs in the area. These early members were known for their use of violence and intimidation, but also for their sense of camaraderie and loyalty to each other.

From there, Ling travels to Long Island, where MS-13 has recently made headlines for a string of brutal murders. She speaks with local law enforcement officials who are trying to combat the gang's presence in the area, and also meets with community members who have been affected by the violence. Ling also speaks with a former MS-13 member who is now working to help others leave the gang and turn their lives around.

Throughout the episode, Ling tackles some of the myths and misconceptions surrounding MS-13. She confronts the idea that all members of the gang are ruthless killers, and emphasizes that many of them are in fact young people who have been drawn into the gang for a variety of reasons, including a sense of belonging or a desire for protection. Ling also explores the role that immigration policy has played in the growth of MS-13, and the ways in which the gang has been used as a political tool for those pushing for stricter immigration laws.

Perhaps most importantly, The Myth of MS-13 brings a human face to a group that is often portrayed as a monolithic and faceless criminal organization. Ling speaks with former gang members who have left the gang and turned their lives around, as well as with families who have lost loved ones to the MS-13 violence. By doing so, she helps to show that there is a way out of the gang lifestyle, and that there is hope for communities that have been affected by MS-13's presence.

Overall, The Myth of MS-13 is an insightful and thought-provoking look at a complex and often-misunderstood gang. Ling's reporting is fair and empathetic, and she does an excellent job of exploring the different factors that have contributed to MS-13's growth and influence in communities throughout the United States. For anyone looking to better understand this pressing social issue, this episode of This is Life with Lisa Ling is a must-watch.