"You're Not Punk, and I'm Telling Everyone"

Hopefully this works. I'm posting from my phone while on my way to Rochester for the Bandits game.

Anyway, I wanted to chime in on the discussion of who's punk. Basically, I agree with Tim Armstrong in that anyone can be punk. It's not about the uniform or any sort of social / economic status. It's about the music and the community. Having gone to hardcore and punk shows in Buffalo and the surrounding areas for the better part of five years, I've met kids from all different backgrounds. I'm far from outgoing, and I don't "look" punk (most people in the scene don't, actually) , but none of that has kept me from becoming part of the community. That's one of the main reasons I fell in love with punk to begin with. I can relate with the people on a number of levels, I love the music, and I have more fun at punk and hardcore shows than anywhere else in the world.

Additionally, punk has allowed me to meet kids from all over the world. While in Boston for a fest this past summer, I had the opportunity to hang out with kids from Atlanta, Alaska, and Britain. I've seen bands from as far away as Italy, Iceland, and South Korea.

I am punk, and I wouldn't have it any other way.