Taqwacore: The Birth of Punk Islam

Growing up Muslim in a post-9/11 West is not easy. Walking into an airport is an exercise in discrimination. Things aren't much better at your local mosque. Saudi-imported imams insist on renouncing everything you love about being North American, especially Sex, Drugs and Rock n' Roll. Where do you find a voice for your frustrations and sense of belonging? Try the DIY world of punk. Take Basim Usmani. His Taqwacore band The Kominas challenges both western and Muslim status quo with provocative lyrics and fiery music. Songs like 'Suicide Bomb the Gap' or 'Sharia Law in the US' poke fun and play with Muslim stereotypes, spitting back the image of Muslims at a world that often defines them at a glance. But Taqwacore bands also target their own communities. Songs mocking sexist imams, backwards traditions and homophobia are as much a part of their repertoire as songs protesting the war in Iraq or making fun of George W. Bush. (KinoSmith)