Muslim teenagers in Britain, so we are told, are caught between extremism and integration. Thousands of pounds have been spent on projects such as Prevent – arguably a total waste of money. Teenagers don’t care what some crusty MPs and self appointed “community leaders” think. Things are grim.
But the more I think about it, the more I realise there’s only one man who can save us.
Zayn Malik.
Yes, really.
Zayn is one of us, but far cooler. He’s a product of Britain. He’s the successful boy next door, and he can be seen to celebrate and enjoy liberal values – he works hard and plays hard. This month his new album shot to the top of the Billboard chart in the US.
Born in Bradford into a Muslim family, Zayn, like many of us, had to go the local mosque (apparently he’s read the Qur’an three times). [392 comments]
[TOP RATED COMMENT 341 votes] "As Ramadan approaches in a few weeks, Muslim teenagers will again get sick and tired of explaining the concept to their kafir pals. Zayn makes it all all right. He gets it."
Is that a joke? You actually use the word kafir to describe non Muslims. Forget the literal translation, the word has thoroughly negative connotations and is usually applied pejoratively. So where do you get off using this word? Any Muslim teenagers who have non Muslims friends and refer to them as this aren't really getting it. And as for explaining Ramadan to someone, is that such a hardship? It's very straightforward and takes a couple of minutes.
[2ND 320] The day may eventually come where nobody heeds the primitive and divisive tribal nonsense of scripture of any variety. Only then will mankind be saved.
[3RD 271] "kafir pals" in the article is an interesting turn of phrase. Isn't "kafir" a derogatory term?
[4TH 243] Why is the author using the word "Kafir" to describe non-muslims which is a very hateful & derogatory word towards us?
[5TH 237] This is great to read.
You say that young Muslims don't have role models.I think the Guardian should do something more to promote a different kind of young Muslim female role model. There's a place for articles about "why I wear hijab" etc, but what would be truly inspiring is if you gave column space to a young woman who whilst holds on to her faith and values her heritage has decided to say "fuck off!" to some of the more backward components of her religion.
Women who wear T-shirts and short skirts if they want, women who party, go on marches and protests, women trying to reform their religion by choosing to live in a way that isn't traditionally approved of within these communities. That would perhaps allow younger Muslims to feel a little less alone in their confusion at the clash between their faith and western society.
[6TH 202] '...kafir pals', really? And this is supposed to be a position piece? Talk about about 'othering'. Have a word with yourself editor. [Guardian Cif] Read more
