From AP via Yahoo! News: "Arab-American Rappers an Emerging Force."

NEW YORK - They rap about checkpoints, military oppression and refugee camps. Their songs express longing for Jerusalem and anger at the hardships of life in the Gaza Strip and West Bank.

Far away from the their parents' homeland in the Middle East, Arab-American rappers are trying to find their own voice in the United States — expressing the frustrations of the Muslim world at a time when anti-Islamic feelings are on the rise following the Sept. 11 attacks.

And 3/11, Bali, Beslan, 7/7... And it only takes two points to draw a straight line.

There's definitely a feeling of solidarity with other minorities, like African-Americans, and not just when it comes to the music," added Ragtop, 25, whose real name is Nizar Wattad. "Palestinians in Israel and the territories are also second-class citizens."

Appropriating rap as another handy angle for dawa.

Their political lyrics resonate with young Arab-Americans. During a recent concert, more than 300 fans of mainly Middle Eastern background squeezed into the Coda Club in midtown Manhattan. The gig was organized by the Network of Arab-American Professionals of New York and the bands themselves.

..."I place my palms to the east where my people seek peace, and freedom from police control, checkpoints and patrols," Wattad and Chakaki rhymed in the song "Free the P," the P referring to Palestinians.

Good luck with that slogan.