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Paul Andrew's blog: "Straight Edge"

created on 10/07/2007  |  http://fubar.com/straight-edge/b138494
Straight Edge: Not Just Another Trend


For a clean lifestyle movement born in the "Just Say No" era of the 1980s, Straight Edge has received little attention since its origination. Commercial exposure for Straight Edge bands, however, has recently brought the movement a little closer to mainstream attention. This, combined with differentiating beliefs from among the ranks within the Straight Edge movement, has some of its members fearing that their life's philosophy might be lost to a trend. The message of substance-free living may be overshadowed by the fashion and music styles spawned from the movement, therefore cheapening the basic ideals of Straight Edge. The general premise behind Straight Edge is "to abstain from self-destructive behaviour." What exactly constitutes "self-destructive behaviour" is constantly debated.


Being true to one's beliefs is at the heart of what divides Straight Edgers from other people and also what divides them amongst themselves. While the original Straight Edge philosophy was simply no alcohol, no drugs, and no sex, it has grown, changed, and splintered into different directions. While abstaining from alcohol and drugs is universally at the core of Straight Edge, abstaining from sex, vegetarianism/veganism, and political and religious issues are interpreted in different ways. These differing opinions on what it means to be Straight Edge has caused divisions throughout the group.


"Clean living" is not specific and therefore widely open to interpretation. Some Straight Edgers believe in not having sex at all, some in not engaging in promiscuous sexual practices, and some do not see sex as having anything to do with being Straight Edge. Vegetarianism and veganism have recently been integrated into the Straight Edge philosophy, sometimes to the point that some people do not consider a non-vegan person to be truly Straight Edge. Some vegans consider the hormones (steroids) added to meat to be drugs, making it impure and harmful for human consumption. Others consume no animal products because of their opposition to harming animals. Activism for animal rights has also become a part of Straight Edge in recent years. Some Straight Edgers have also integrated more political and religious issues into the movement, including the rejection of abortion as well as the enforcement of woman's rights and minority rights. Their activism most often includes protests, boycotts, and publications addressing the issues.


With different people incorporating different ideals into what being Straight Edge truly means, today's definition of Straight Edge is completely dependent upon the person defining it. "Hardline" is an offspring of Straight Edge, usually considered to be separate from the Straight Edge movement itself, and, in some ways, it is a step beyond. Sometimes described as militant, Hardliners are vehemently Straight Edge and usually will not associate at all with non-Straight Edge followers, often using a condescending approach in viewing them to be on a lower level.


Straight Edge began as a youth movement in the early 1980s. The term "Straight Edge" comes from a song of that name by Minor Threat, one of the earliest and most influential hardcore bands of the era. Singer Ian MacKaye is credited with coining the term Straight Edge, as well as for much of the early Straight Edge philosophy expressed through Minor Threat's lyrics. "That's the main way the views are expressed, is through the music," says Zach Guttery, a Ball State University student from Muncie, Indiana. "I can listen to other music and say 'that's a good song,' but nothing gets my blood pumping like hardcore."


The successes of hardcore bands Earth Crisis and Snapcase have brought Straight Edge forward into the mainstream, and the movement is integrated with the music. Straight Edge hardcore music is important to followers of the lifestyle, because it reiterates the beliefs, providing a unifying agent for what they believe in and follow. Unlike grunge and alternative music -- two distinct fads combining style and music -- Straight Edge is much more than a fashion trend. Those calling themselves Straight Edge are swearing to be substance-free for the rest of their lives, which many would consider an admirable pledge for today's youth.


Though it is an important part of the movement, being Straight Edge goes beyond listening to hardcore music. It is the strong belief in a clean lifestyle that gives the movement its intensity and strength, not listening to a certain band or wearing a certain T-shirt. Someone can listen to Green Day and still be Straight Edge, as long as that person believes in and follows the core ideals of the lifestyle.


In recent years, many Straight Edgers have begun to fear the commercialization of the movement as threatening to rob them of their strength and credibility by drawing people more to fashion styles than to the basic premises of the lifestyle. Spreading the message of Straight Edge is certainly part of the movement, but the loss of respect for those claiming to be Straight Edge could hinder the practice of the lifestyle altogether.


There is no typical dress code or fashion trend for Straight Edgers, whose appearances are as varied as their beliefs and interests. Big baggy jeans, running shoes, and black T-shirts with Straight Edge slogans are common amongst followers of the movement. Short hair, tattoos, and piercings are often sported as well, as are necklaces and pins stating "Vegan" and "Straight Edge." Not all Straight Edgers look like punks or grunge rockers. Some Straight Edgers just stand out more than others do.


True Straight Edgers have mixed feelings about the movement's sudden rise in mainstream popularity. Trying to practice something that you do not really know anything about or fully understand and twisting its true meaning makes those truly involved feel violated and look hypocritical. A unique side of the Straight Edge movement is that, while its current members are intense and firm in their beliefs, there are great numbers of former Straight Edgers to attest to the movement's high turnover. Called "Sellouts" by remaining Straight Edgers, those who turn their backs against the Straight Edge lifestyle often have a different perspective on the movement.


Indiana University student Doug McClintock was Straight Edge for about a year and a half during his high school days. He adopted the lifestyle because the movement fit his already substance-free lifestyle and gave him an answer for the majority of his peers who drank and did drugs. He left Straight Edge behind because of changes within himself and changes he saw in the movement. "I realized the folly of trying to impose my beliefs on someone," McClintock says. "I think if you look at the movement as a whole and make a big generalization, you'll find that most who are straight edge disregard people who aren't." McClintock goes on to say, "As I got older and started becoming more objective, as people do, and I looked at myself, I decided that I was being very closed-minded." He felt that if he was of age and could be responsible, it should be his choice to drink, smoke, do drugs, and have sex with whomever he pleased.


Another catalyst for McClintock's rejection of Straight Edge was his chance meeting with the members of Earth Crisis in Connecticut. "They were constantly trying to live up to this image that they've created of Straight Edge and how hardline and how cool they are, and it really pissed me off, and that's when I think I first started getting disillusioned with the whole attitude of the Straight Edge scene," McClintock says. McClintock thinks Straight Edge today is absolutely and vastly different from the original beliefs and attitudes from the 1980s. "The original attitude was 'we're proud that we're this way,' and 'don't disrespect yourself by doing drugs and drinking alcohol.' But its become more of an elitist type thing now, they just want to be better than other people," says McClintock. "Straight Edge is great, as long as you're not intolerant. Anything is great as long as you're open-minded."


The reason some Straight Edgers leave the lifestyle is the interest in experimentation. As some put it, "curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back." People want to know what they're missing in life. Straight Edgers are often met with contempt by those who have chosen different lifestyles, giving Straight Edge a bad name overall, because many people take the militant attitude. Conflicts are so abundant with people wanting to confront Straight Edgers about what they believe.


There is an almost tangible difference between simply being substance-free and taking the name Straight Edge. That difference caused Indiana University student Gregg Holtsclaw to reject the label "Straight Edge," despite a completely substance-free lifestyle and heavy involvement in music. "I'm not really into anyone who has a certain set ideology or a martyr complex," Holtsclaw says. Holtsclaw works in record distribution and runs his own record label. The first release off the label, Ape Records, was a four-band compilation that featured Failsafe, a local Straight Edge band in Bloomington, Indiana.


Living substance free, Holtsclaw agrees with the basic Straight Edge philosophy. He thinks as a group, however, Straight Edge is too political, too unrealistic, and has too much inner dissension to ever be a truly coherent movement. In Holtsclaw's opinion, the Straight Edge movement involves rejecting our white patriarchal society. He sees the attempt at separation from societal norms as unrealistic. But despite the recent growth in popularity of Straight Edge, Holtsclaw does not see the Straight Edge movement becoming much larger or stronger. "They can't apply everything they think to the whole world," Holtsclaw says. "How can you change anything if all you do is preach to the converted?"


While Straight Edge may be a matter of opinion and debate, it can function as a starting point for personal growth. Indiana University professor Seth Stevens has been Straight Edge for six years. "I didn't know there was actually a term for kids that didn't do drugs," Stevens says. "I was already like that, and it kind of fit me." Stevens, also a vegan, became an activist for human and animal rights after becoming closely involved with Straight Edge. He is very active in the Animal Defense League. He says that Straight Edge can inspire kids and provide direction, but often the message gets lost, leaving just music. "I expect more from kids who are Straight Edge," Stevens says. Stevens mentions self-education and being aware of the issues as being very important. "It's a political stance on things. Too many people ignore human rights," he says. "They talk a lot, but don't really do anything." Stevens sees those who leave Straight Edge behind as disappointing, but says it is an individual issue. "I think it's completely realistic to be Straight Edge forever," says Stevens.


Straight Edge may have many different sides, but the basic belief in clean living serves to unify those genuinely involved in the movement. More importantly, it can be the first step toward a more proactive lifestyle. From that perspective, Stevens was not entirely negative about Straight Edge becoming a fad. "Straight Edge, by itself, isn't much," Stevens says, comparing it to a seed. "Maybe it will plant the seed in more people and grow and prosper from there," he says.


Straight Edge Debate: Tobacco Versus Marijuana


The national governments of both Canada and the United States, as well as the public at large, are infuriated over recent reports of the tobacco industry increasing nicotine content in cigarettes, suppressing information about fire resistant cigarettes, and generally being bad actors. Strangely, neither the public nor some members of our governments recognize the harmful parallels to marijuana.


Tobacco is responsible for over 400,000 deaths every year from cancer, lung, heart, and other cardiovascular diseases. Marijuana has been linked to over 30% of vehicular trauma cases and is the most commonly abused illegal narcotic drug. It contains higher concentrations of cancer causing agents than tobacco. Marijuana and tobacco cause at least the same amount of injury to the airways, pulmonary function, and lung immunity. Recent studies have demonstrated increased health care utilization among heavy marijuana smokers for respiratory problems.


Tobacco is a highly addictive substance. Many physicians consider tobacco use one of the hardest drugs to stop consuming. Marijuana is also addictive, and is even one of the hardest drugs for addicts to quit cold turkey. Drug users often return to marijuana first if they relapse. The nicotine content of cigarettes varies by their producers. The major addictive ingredient in marijuana, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), varies from 3% to 29% by content.


Tobacco use by pregnant women is closely associated with many forms of birth defects and abnormalities. Marijuana use by pregnant women is associated with decreased birth weight, length, and shorter pregnancy gestation periods. Recent studies have demonstrated that young children exposed to second hand marijuana smoke have a ten-fold higher risk of developing acute non-lymphoblastic leukemia.


Users frequently refuse to quit tobacco consumption, because it helps some of them lose weight and manage anxiety, despite the severe health consequences associated with such use. A growing movement in both Canada and the United States is supporting the use and legalization of small amounts of marijuana for what they call "medical purposes," despite the severe health consequences, toxicity, and the availability of safer, more effective medications for the various medical problems plaguing those individuals. None of the major global medical organizations support tobacco or marijuana as a medicine. Although a few medical practitioners have stated publicly that marijuana has some medical benefits, their claims have never been approved and verified by any of the major medical associations nor the World Health Organization.


The tobacco lobbies throughout North America are a powerful, well-financed, and aggressive group that has successfully fought efforts to regulate, tax, or otherwise control the production and distribution of cigarettes. The marijuana lobby is also well-financed and highly organized. These lobby groups have continually flooded the media with misinformation suggesting that marijuana is harmless and should be available medically and for general use via legalization of the drug. Drug culture "experts" downplay recent massive research showing health problems associated with the continued use of marijuana. The tobacco "experts" also deny the link of tobacco to cancer and other major health problems.


I would never trust these so-called "independent experts" that the tobacco industry has paraded out to the public over the years to tell us things like tobacco smoking is really good for you, because it relaxes you, and that there is no connection between cigarette smoking and addiction, and, of course, their latest claim that they never manipulate nicotine levels in the production of their cigarettes. My view also applies to the current social atmosphere surrounding marijuana. We need to learn from the sad mistakes surrounding tobacco and not extend these to marijuana and other illegal and illicit drugs. I believe that the only reason that the health impact of marijuana and other illegal drugs is still less than tobacco is that the other drugs are still illegal. The drug culture and its lobbyists are every bit as insincere, manipulative, and self-serving as the tobacco lobby groups. In my Straight Edge opinion, all addictive drugs should be outlawed. I believe marijuana should be kept as an illegal narcotic and I also support the criminalization of cigarette production and consumption.


Following The Straight Edge


Straight Edge is a philosophy based on human self-preservation and the abstinence from the "poisons" (alcohol, drugs, caffeine, cigarettes, and promiscuous sex) that many people choose to consume each day. It is this philosophical frame of mind which is a major part of our Straight Edge belief system and makes each one of us stronger and more self-aware individuals. By being Straight Edge, we discipline ourselves at our own will. It is much harder to reject the popular, indulgent past-times that most adults sadly partake than to just give into temptations and follow the crowd.


I know from personal experience that by being Straight Edge, I have avoided learning many of the hard lessons of life. But I have also learned a lot more about myself and my abilities by remaining sober. I am able to concentrate more on living my life to the fullest rather than stumbling through it, unaware of my faults and mistakes. Deciding to become Straight Edge is purely a personal choice, but it is something that someone should definitely do for themselves.


Although some identify the Straight Edge movement simply as a trend or as a shallow belief to label yourself, it is not meant to be that way. Straight Edge is a lifelong commitment. It is in no way a religion, but a philosophy by which to live and be proud of, because it takes a lot of courage, strength, determination, and willpower to be Straight Edge for life.


To be truly and devoutly Straight Edge you must never smoke cigarettes, never drink alcohol, never take narcotic drugs, never consume caffeine, and never engage in any promiscuous sexual activities (having sex with someone you do not love). Straight Edge is not a cult or a gang, it is a belief system. You do not have to listen to hardcore punk music or draw an X on your hand when you go to a show, but you absolutely must be true to yourself about where you stand and not participate in the apathy caused by alcoholism, drug use, or having meaningless sexual relationships with people whom you do not love. Straight Edge is all about caring for yourself and caring for those who care about you.


Straight Edge was founded on the principles of a non-violent movement, but, unfortunately, there are some individuals who carry their beliefs to the extreme. Just as in any subgroup or subculture in our modern day society, there will be those who unjustly give a just cause a bad name. Militant Straight Edge followers are often called "Hardliners" and use violence in the name of spreading Straight Edge to the masses. These people are purely ignorant of the philosophies of Straight Edge and give Straight Edge a bad name and a poor reputation. In the past year alone there have been many attacks on the Straight Edge movement by the mainstream media that were influenced by the actions of individuals who prostitute the Straight Edge philosophy with their own warped ideals. Straight Edge is all about positive change, but the unjust actions of these so-called "Hardliners" have tarnished the true meaning of Straight Edge in the eyes of the public. In no way do the actions of these "Hardliners" represent what Straight Edge is about. As mentioned earlier, Straight Edge is about positive change and caring for yourself and for others.


Straight Edgers do not mean to preach or delineate their beliefs onto others, but we do want to open doors to those people who may need some direction in their lives. We never pass judgments or criticize people who do recreational drugs, drink alcohol, or practice promiscuous sex, but we do want to try and make a positive difference for our society.


The Straight Edge Ethic

The Straight Edge Ethic


What is Straight Edge? Straight Edge is what people who choose not to consume alcohol, use tobacco, or any drugs call themselves. A non-promiscuous sex life is also favoured by most Straight Edge followers. Straight Edge ethics are a choice made on a personal level, for instance, some people choose a vegan lifestyle in addition to their Straight Edge commitment. Some choose not to ingest caffeine and some even go as far as to abstain from as many legal prescription medications as possible. Another choice many Straight Edge people opt for is that of environmental awareness, which, in effect, could be involving oneself in recycling, awareness of power usage, involvement in environmental organizations like Green Peace, and primarily any kind of environmental aid. Straight Edge is, in effect, a non-violent movement, usually built on self-preservation or self-abstinence. It is a discipline, but for others it is a simple choice with no interest from the products in question. All of this really depends on why one chooses to become Straight Edge.


Why be Straight Edge? The reasons behind people choosing a Straight Edge lifestyle can be traced to many different factors. Since living a Straight Edge lifestyle is a personal choice, it is difficult to say exactly why individual people go the Straight Edge route, but here are a few factors for making such a crucial lifestyle decision.


  1. Growing up with alcoholics in the family and being scared that the same will occur in one's life. Also, alcohol induced aggression exhibited by family members can scare an individual into abstaining from their own alcohol consumption. It is also possible that people have seen the affects of drugs on family or friends and have learnt from other's mistakes.


To further one's own personal health, well being, and productivity. Basically to accomplish what they wish and to be everything they can and want to be with a clear mind.


The want to be an individual, taking the path less traveled by others, and not wanting to follow peer pressure. More often than not these people never have an interest in self-destructive drug use and already live a drug free life. They probably don't even know about the Straight Edge movement until later in their lives.


Most people who choose to follow the Straight Edge ethos, however, is to promote their own personal health. Because of this reason, there are a lot of vegan Straight Edgers. But the vegan lifestyle does not have a lot to do with being Straight Edge. There are masses of Straight Edgers who have nothing to do with veganism. But because the Straight Edge society usually has a lot more thought for their personal and environmental futures, veganism seems an appropriate affiliation to the overall ethic of the movement.


Usually when a vegan becomes involved in veganism, he or she will in turn become involved in animal rights to further their beliefs in their principles. In all integrity, veganism is, in a sense, the boycotting of animal produce. Although this depends on how far the individual takes the veganism process in their lives. Many vegans will take veganism to a far extent if they intend to take the ethic to a serious level, as most do. This usually involves the abstinence of all animal products and products which are tested on animals, from the vegans point of view, including clothes, footwear, and cosmetics. In effect this is actually a lot easier then it sounds. The main reason vegans will tend to push the boundries of veganism, if they are serious about it, as most are about their cause, is becasue it becomes hypocritical to stop eating meat, but still use cosmetics which are tested on animals. This is especially relevant to vegans who turn vegan primarily for animal rights focused principles. The environmental issues of the vegan ethic lie in the undertones of the overall Straight Edge ethic. Self-preservation, which is the ethical relationship between the two lifestyles, and also another of the reasons the two ethics work in tandem.


One of the most common legal drugs that many Straight Edge people recognize as an addictive drug and therefore abstain from in their daily lives is caffeine. You may be thinking, "What is so bad about drinking coffee, tea, Coca-Cola, or Pepsi?" Caffeine, just like any drug, has addictive qualities and also has many other detrimental effects on our health. Caffeine aids in the loss of sodium, potassium, calcium, and other essential nutrients from our body, including the absorption of Vitamins B and C. This, in turn, increases our bodies' need for vitamins from other sources, such as vitamin and mineral supplements. Caffeine ingestion greatly increases the risk of bladder cancer, especially in women. There are also high risks that large daily consumption of caffeine in pregnant women can increase the risks of miscarriages, still births, or birth defects. These are just a handful of the unhealthy side effects of caffeine.


People who choose to live a Straight Edge lifestyle primarily do it for what I consider all the right reasons. They will eventually opt for for a vegan diet also. There is a lot more to being Straight Edge than simply choosing a alcohol, cigarette, and drug free path in life. The Straight Edge lifestyle is based on a strong foundation of ethical social principles. To some people, this is understood before they even realize that they are labeled as being Straight Edge. They have been following the path of the Straight Edge movement for a long time before they actually know that there is a Straight Edge following.


The historical roots of Straight Edge is an interesting development. There are a few different stories as to where the name originated, but most followers of the movement believe that the name came from the title of a song by the punk rock band Minor Threat. Another part of the Straight Edge ethic is music, primarily hardcore punk rock. The occasional punk band also gets a bit serious about Straight Edge in their lyrical undertones from time to time. That is not to say that being Straight Edge has anything to do with being a hardcore fan of punk rock, although it does have some sides to it. The main ethos about music and Straight Edge is the fact that one is listening to music which is encouraging their lifestyle. One of the best known vegan Straight Edge bands is Earth Crisis. Their songs are among some of the best written as far as ethics are concerned. Another interesting band who base their songs around ethics is Blood For Blood. They have been known to base many of their lyrics around the destruction of modern day society.


There are many abbreviations, acronyms, and other ways of representing Straight Edge. Some of the most common include: sXe (this is commonly used on the Internet and also on some Straight Edge CD music compilations); XXX (this is a favourite symbol used on T-shirts, other clothing, and jewelry); X?X (where the question mark '?' becomes whatever word is desired, for example, XcultureX); and X (used on the top of someone's hand, usually at a concert, to show allegiance to Straight Edge).


Another element of the Straight Edge ethic is aimed at the entire culture as it interacts within the community it is based. These interactions are usually based within a group usually known in Straight Edge terminology as a "crew." Crews are primarily a base group of friends, all Straight Edgers, but usually more often than not they are based on an impartial group of friends. Some crews may consist of primarily hardcore Straight Edge members or even Straight Edge vegan members. This is mainly because there usually are not many Straight Edge friends in the usual Straight Edge persons' freinds base. Unfortunately, this is because there are not a great deal of Straight Edge people around in a given community, so Straight Edgers usually either have non-Straight Edge friends or very few friends at all.


It is obvious that without any unity of Straight Edge followers, the movement would not survive very long. That is why the development of Straight Edge crews are essential for the overall survival of the scene. This is even more relevant when it comes to Straight Edge ethics being put into practice. The reason why Straight Edge crews interact with the surrounding communities comes from a variety of purposes. It may come down to introducing other Straight Edgers into a crew or other Straight Edge crews organizing activities within their area. This may be done to increase Straight Edge awareness in the area to people who have no idea about the Straight Edge movement. This may also include Straight Edge positive actions, the supporting of human rights or animal rights organizations, for instance. In general these crews try to interact with their surrounding society for its own benefit.


Overall, the Straight Edge movement is based on positive actions towards all involved and their surrounding. To an extent, this may involve a great deal of differing principles. But in an overall effect, it is always for the better of society. If more people were to become Straight Edge, the world would be an incredibly better place to live. There would be virtually no AIDS or sexually transmitted diseases, no drug abuse, and no worry of stepping on a hypodermic needle walking along the beach with bare feet. There would be no drunk drivers, no alcoholics, no drug addicts or drug dealers. Of course, these are utopian ideals and the most ethical approach for the world, yet people view all of the worlds problems as inane to an extent, problems which will, in effect, directly affect the lives of future generations.


The approach of most people in this world who choose the more travelled path of self-induced unhealthiness are simply paving the road to their own untimely destruction. To ignore the social decay which our society is encountering is, in effect, the worst choice any responsible adult can ever choose to make. To recognize that we have a problem in any way and choose the Straight Edge path is a good start. At least then you can actually realize that there is a problem and that there is an option to correct it. Unfortunately, this is the less travelled path, but that can only change for the better in the future. Don't let the overall lack of social support for the Straight Edge lifestyle at its current stage curve your moral and ethical choices.


About Straight Edge


To be Straight Edge is to keep one's mind, body, and soul free from self-destructive behavior, including drug abuse, alcohol addiction, and smoking. Straight Edgers see the harm that substance abuse can cause to individuals and choose to free themselves of any crutch that may be used to synthesize temporary happiness. Drugs and alcohol inhibit the ability to think clearly and are used as an escape, to temporarily hide from and mask one's daily problems. Straight Edgers are strong enough not to hide from their problems and strive to make their lives better and themselves stronger by passing up the easy way out of situations.


When attending a hardcore punk show, Straight Edgers can be easily spotted in the crowd due to the giant X's that are drawn on their hands, usually with a black magic marker. The X has become the symbol adopted by Straight Edgers because of the practice in clubs where bouncers would mark an X on the top of the hands of anyone under the age of 21 who attend a concert so that they would not be served alcohol. A true "edger" who follows the lifestyle is extremely proud to be Straight Edge and wears the X to show his or her choice to be free from impurities. Another common symbol that has been adopted by Straight Edgers is the triple-X (XXX). The triple-X symbol signifies the abstinence of drugs, alcohol, and promiscuous sex from a person's lifestyle as well as the purity of mind, body, and soul.


There are different reasons for which people choose to become Straight Edge. Some have had family or friends succumb to the disease of drug or alcohol addiction or some just see the harm that substance abuse can cause and choose not to use them. I chose to be Straight Edge because of my desire to keep my lifestyle pure and to keep my body clean from the things that can easily destroy it from the inside. I also felt that it was foolish how many young people would go out to get drunk simply in the name of "fun" and a "good time." I never did nor do understand such people's mentalities. I could never see why people would want to impair themselves so that they couldn't even remember what they were doing the night before.


Obviously, I have heard of the many horror stories of drinking deaths on college and university campuses, but I made the choice to be Straight Edge long before I even entered university. I have never been drunk and have never used any drugs other than prescription medications given to me under the direct supervision of my personal physician. I have vowed and pledged never to use drugs or drink any form of alcoholic beverages, because I have never had the desire to do such things. When a person chooses to be Straight Edge, they choose it for life. It's not one of those things that you can be one weekend and then not the next. It is a lifelong commitment to yourself and your future.


When anyone chooses a rebellious path, such as that of any Straight Edger, they are subjecting themselves to ridicule and question. That is why the deviants must be well educated on the subject. Oftentimes I know more about the affects and harmful consequences of drugs and alcohol than the people that are using them. Many Straight Edgers, such as myself, are very well educated on the topics of drugs and alcohol, because it is this knowledge that makes them strong, it adds to and contributes to their system of defense.


Most often, however, Straight Edge has appeared in a negative light. When an article appears in the media about Straight Edge, it is unfortunately because of violent intercessions on the part of a Straight Edger against a non-follower of the movement. There are members of the scene that are ultra-violent and not only oppose the use of drugs and alcohol, but will verbally and sometimes physically attack people seen smoking a cigarette or drinking alcohol. This is not being Straight Edge. A true Straight Edger will respect the choices of others even if they don't agree with them. We only promote knowledge on the subject and true Straight Edgers are not violent towards others.


Despite some of the negativity against Straight Edge, it is good to see that the scene is growing. Before I graduated from Concordia University in 2005, I helped to establish and form the first Straight Edge club on campus, which we christened "The A-Team." Our numbers are increasing and our movement is growing stronger. More and more young people are choosing to go against the norm and make the right choice to be in total control over their bodies and minds at all times. As the Grammy nominated melodic metalcore band Killswitch Engage states in their song, This Fire Burns: "Never more to held down; By the ways against me; Never more to be cast aside; This day is mine."


The Straight Edge: Rejecting Sex, Drugs, Cigarettes, and Alcohol


Sex and drugs ... cigarettes and alcohol. They permeate our society at every level. Be it on television, the movies, in magazines, or on clothing, using and promoting illegal and harmful substances seems to have become a socially acceptable pastime these days.


Why then do I, and so many other people worldwide, choose to lead a "Straight Edge" lifestyle? A lifestyle in which we abstain from drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, using drugs, and having sex. The reason is quite simple. We Straight Edgers believe that these useless addictions divert our attention from what is really important: the future prosperity of ourselves and our society.


The social state of our world today is sadly growing worse every passing hour. The most effective way to focus on improving our future is to build ourselves into a clear-minded, focused, motivated, and dedicated global community. Being a Straight Edger has empowered me to do what I know is right in order to make a difference, even if it means going against the norm and the majority. I am no longer afraid to let my voice be heard. I know that I can make a positive difference through my words and actions, as long as I do not allow drugs, alcohol, and sex to cloud my judgments and interfere with my goals.


In an increasingly degenerating society where researchers estimate that 70% of teenagers are having sex before they even graduate from high school, it is very challenging to remain clean and pure and to uphold Straight Edge ideals. I, however, have managed to resist these temptations since I was a teenager, because I know that I am not alone. Increasing numbers of teenagers and young adults are beginning to "see the light" and are also committing to the pure lifestyle of Straight Edge.


Using drugs, smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, and engaging in illicit sexual activities are a complete waste of time and energy. They only lead to further self-destructive behaviours. Since I have adopted the Straight Edge lifestyle, I have become more self-aware and more self-confident about myself and my endeavours. Living Straight Edge allows me to think and act with a clear mind and make rational decisions without allowing anything from holding me back from fulfilling my greatest dreams.


Why Am I Straight Edge?

Why Am I Straight Edge?


When people discover that I am a Straight Edge follower, I am often condemned and ridiculed for my beliefs. Here are answers to some of the questions and statements that I have routinely encountered.


Why would I want to stifle myself in any way?
I believe that to truly be Straight Edge, you must not feel repressed by it in any way. Through Straight Edge, I do not feel trapped, I feel free. I am free from all the pressures people place on me, the pressures to get drunk, smoke, have sex, and so on, the pressures to try and keep up with other people's drinking or other immoral habits, to not be seen as a "wussy" by other people. I also feel free from worries like "who will look after me if I get really drunk?", "I hope I didn't embarrass myself!", "I wonder if I'll have enough money to go to the bar tonight", and many more. I don't feel any need to drink. I do not wish I was drunk in any situation and therefore it in no way represses me.


Aren't Straight Edgers a militant and violent cult?
Straight Edge is an individual choice. We do not have sermons, scriptures, and rules like organized religions and cults. Seeing as there are no real rules of conduct, a fraction of people may use their involvement in the Straight Edge movement as an excuse to use violence against those who do not share the same values as Straight Edgers. As an individual, however, I am not responsible for what other people who call themselves Straight Edge do, because we are not involved in an organized belief system. Straight Edge is a definition of a person who doesn't drink, smoke, or do drugs. That would clearly affect a person's lifestyle, but it in no way places the responsibility of what other people choose to do on the backs of a Straight Edger. Personally, I am non-violent, but, as everything in life, we all make our own life's choices and it is up to the individual.


You Straight Edge guys are so judgmental!
What? Huh? Eh? People often assume that because I choose not to partake in any drug use or drinking that I am making a judgment about them. This is completely wrong. I am living my chosen lifestyle just as you are living your own. When people assume that I am making a judgment by doing this, I think that it obviously reflects their insecurity at their own lifestyle. A Straight Edge person often takes a lot of criticism about their lifestyle. This, to me, seems to be a double standard. We Straight Edgers are often told that our lifestyle is stupid, yet we are often not allowed to defend our position without being considered judgmental.


You Straight Edgers think you're all so self-righteous!
As for being self-righteous, I would also disagree with this claim. I will admit, gladly, that I really do love my lifestyle, but I do not necessarily think that I am better than you. And you know what, if you get drunk and you do something stupid, it is your own fault and I can't help if its funny! :-P LOL


You Straight Edge people are, like, all virgins, or don't get any, right?
That's just a stupid and bigoted remark to say the least. Personally, yes, I am still a virgin, and I am proud to admit that I am to anyone. Being Straight Edge and also a devout Roman Catholic, I am ultimately saving myself until marriage when I can finally give up my virginity to the one person who I ultimately adore and love. That notwithstanding, a Straight Edge person can choose to have sex whenever they feel it is the right time for them. Straight Edge is all about control. People often make stupid sexual decisions when they are drunk or weak and such sexual encounters can have bad consequences. Followers of Straight Edge just aim to not get into any bad situations which may harm our quality of life. This often involves only having sexual relationships when a person is in love and not have countless partners simply for impromptu pleasurable encounters.


The History of Straight Edge and the Spread of the Straight Edge Lifestyle into a Worldwide Philosophy


A fifteen year old skater in a confrontational and sparring spirit approached an older teenager on the street. The younger one spoke in a scrutinizing manner with a twist of an East Coast dialect, apparently meeting his older peer for the first time. "Are you or aren't you?", the young skater said. "Am I or am not what?", the older teen said, sort of smugly, but puzzled. "Straight Edge!", the young teen answered in a matter-of-factly way. "Well," said the older teen, "I don't drink, and I really don't smoke or smoke pot or anything, but I don't know. I really don't label myself as 'Straight Edge'", he said a little righteously and maturely. "That's way lame!", said the young skater, abruptly ending the inquisition and laughing at himself while walking off. "That," the youngster thought to himself, "is what killed Straight Edge, and at the same time, it's what made it grow into an enormous subculture worldwide: attitude with conservative principles" (Lahickey). Straight Edge is a belief system that stemmed from a group of rebellious adolescents though their already rebellious nature, but with a willingness to want to go one step farther.


What is Straight Edge? The Straight Edge lifestyle was originally defined by Ian MacKaye through his Washington, D.C., hardcore punk band Minor Threat. MacKaye is widely identified as the founder of the Straight Edge movement (Irwin). The term "Straight Edge" was first defined as the title of a Minor Threat song, "Don't smoke, Don't Drink, Don't Fuck."


The history of Straight Edge is well documented in punk music. Punk music originated in the late 1970's by the bands The Ramones and The Sex Pistols. No one is sure who exactly started punk music, but everyone knows it will never die. Punk music was not only a new sound, but it was also a new lifestyle for youth who were tired of following the actions of mainstream society and the traditional ways forced upon them. As rebellion grew in the punk community, alcohol and drugs became commonplace. "At its conception, Straight Edge was a reaction to the self-destruction of punk rockers. Artists like Sid Vicious, bassist of The Sex Pistols, infamously known for his fatal use of drugs and alcohol, stood for everything a straight-edger would be against. Straight Edge provided the hardcore/punk scene with an alternative to the calamitous 'drunk punk'. In essence, it became a counterculture within a counterculture" (Helton).


"In the early 1980s, the term Straight Edge was coined to describe a youth subculture within the punk rock scene, a subculture that chose a lifestyle that abstained from alcohol consumption, tobacco and drug use, as well as promiscuous sex" (Helton). Straight Edge is the ultimate form of rebellion against our mainstream society, which glamorizes the drinking of alcohol, tobacco and drug use, and sexual promiscuity. Many people see Straight Edge as a form of reverse rebellion (Batsell), because the way of life of the mainstream was being challenged. This rebellion against society is what created Straight Edge. Vegetarianism, or the absence of meat in one's diet, and animal rights activism have become closely related to Straight Edge. "Earth Crisis [a hardcore band], for example, has led to the development of vegan [absence of all animal by-products from one's diet and the absence of using products made with or tested on animals] Straight Edge, with its evangelistic vegan lifestyle and strong association with animal rights" (Helton).


"At first, it [Straight Edge] had no name, only a symbol" (McClelland). Straight Edgers commonly apply X's on the back of their hands with a magic maker. Straight Edge youths say they "X-Up" for a show. "X" became a symbol for Straight Edge participation in the 1980s in Washington, D.C. Bouncers at clubs marked the hands of underage concertgoers with an "X" to signify that such persons should not be served alcoholic drinks. Straight Edge youth also marked themselves with X's to signify that they would not drink and were drug free. In recent years, the "X" has even become a major part of the elaborate tattoos sported by many Straight Edge youths (Irwin).


One Straight Edger said, "I love tattoos and I think Straight Edge is like a tattoo in your mindset, so why not get it inscribed on you for life" (Helton). Becoming Straight Edge is thought to be a life long commitment. "True Till Death," singer Bif Naked states. "It's a commitment not to do these things [drugs, alcohol, and promiscuous sex] for the rest of my life. Every passing year I have Straight Edge under my belt, I have more conviction about it" (McClelland).


Many people don't take Straight Edge as seriously as it needs to be taken and many people "lose the edge" as it's called. When people break the "edge" it is considered a disgrace and a term has been coined in making fun of people that stop being Straight Edge: "Straight Edge Until 21!" (Irwin). The Straight Edge movement has also developed a bad name in today's popular culture with help from the mainstream media. "Consequently, all of these media reports were widely criticized by those within the Straight Edge movement as biased, distorted, and wrong" (Helton). In some places Straight Edge has erroneously become known as a dangerous and violent movement. That is in reaction to the fact that a few edgers are militantly intolerant of non-believers. Andrew Moench, a nineteen year old from Salt Lake City, Utah, was charged with murdering a fifteen year old youth who, police allege, did not respect Moench's Straight Edge point of view. "I've got to die some time," Moench told the network television show 20/20. "I might as well be dying standing up for what I believe in. If it resorts to violence, yeah, then I don't have a problem with that" (McClelland).


Personally, I have been a follower of the Straight Edge lifestyle since I was in high school. At that time I pledged and vowed to myself, to my parents, to my family, to my friends, and to my religious leaders that I would never indulge myself in drugs, alcohol, smoking, or promiscuous sex. I was sure of it. As I matured and got older I was constantly put under fire for my beliefs and endured peer pressure to break my vows and follow the path of any young adult and try drugs, alcohol, smoking, and sex. Under my strong will and determination to stay "straight," I never succumbed to these temptations and stayed on the path of Straight Edge. During this time, however, I had begun to lose touch with most of my friends for not participating in the same activities as them. Many of my former friends' teenage years were spent in an intoxicated state of bare consciousness. I watched with sadness as many of their lives headed downhill. I had tried with complete effort and determination to change their mindsets and help them to turn their lives around and, although not forcing my Straight Edge lifestyle on them, insisted that they stop consuming alcohol, drugs, and tobacco. But instead of listening to my advice, they turned their backs on me, shunned, and ridiculed me. As a result, I moved on with my life without them and ultimately achieved personal successes after graduating from high school. I graduated from college, attended two different universities and earned two undergraduate degrees. Meanwhile, most of my "friends" failed to graduate high school. They had hit rock bottom. I have since never seen or heard from any of them to this day.


The vast amount of drug use, alcohol consumption, and pre-marital sex has grown exponentially over the last decade and a half. Many people in today's world just drift along through life not making an impact on anything or anyone. The moral fabric of our society has deteriorated to the point where less than 33% of people attend their respective religious services every week. Sadly, many people do not know nor have a predetermined plan for what they want out of life and don't have a "straight" mindset.


Straight Edge is my own personal guide to maintaining a "clean," moral and "straight" life. Many people see Straight Edge as a label, just another way for people to stereotype those who do not conform to society's norms, but I personally view the movement as a life long goal to which to aspire. Straight Edge is not something a person just becomes one day. It takes much strength, willpower, courage, determination, commitment, and a lifetime to achieve. Straight Edge is something that, along with my strong faith in Roman Catholicism, I can positively look upon to give me the strength and courage to stand up for myself and what I believe is just and right for my own life.



REFERENCES
Batsell, Jake. "Straight Edge: Kids Who Look Wild, Live Clean." Knight-Ridder Newspapers, July 21, 1996.


Helton, Jesse J. and William J. Staudenmeir, Jr. "Re-imagining Being 'Straight' in Straight Edge." Contemporary Drug Problems, Summer 2002.


Irwin, Darrell D. "The Straight Edge Subculture: Examining the Youths' Drug-Free Way." Journal of Drug Issues, Spring 1999.


Lahickey, Beth, editor. All Ages: Reflections on Straight Edge. Los Angeles, California: Revelation Books, 1998.


McClelland, Susan. "Straight, But With an Edge: A Philosophy Born of Punk Rock Has Some Young Adults Choosing to Live Without Sex, Booze and Drugs." Maclean's, May 17, 1999.


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