Young Muslims and Punk

In this article by the Chicago Sun-Times, a reporter explores young Muslims who turn to different forms of music, especially punk rock, to express themselves and "loosen up" their religion.

It is true that Islam is generally seen as being socially conservative and very strongly tied to traditions and age-old practices. These Islamic youth are doing their part to change the stigma associated with Islam and with Muslims, especially in the West.

I like this article because the author is presenting a side of Islam not often discussed by the media. Namely, that there are many different people belonging to Islam who do not fit what we traditionally view as Muslim stereotypes.

Many Muslims are young and progressive. This article succeeds by tapping into this demography, rather than the most-often presented "older-generation" which is more strict with its practices. By using punk rock to express themselves, these Muslims are expanding their identity and changing how we view Islam in the media.