Cat Stevens sparks US plane alert

[T_i_B]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/3678694.stm

A security alert involving the singer who used to be known as Cat Stevens has forced a London-to-Washington flight to be diverted to another US airport.

The plane was already in the air when US officials identified that the singer, whose name is now Yusuf Islam, was on one of their "watch lists".

United Airlines Flight 919 was diverted 600 miles (1000km), landing in Maine.

After an interview, the singer - who converted to Islam in 1977 - was denied entry into the US.

[w4rma]

1. Freedom to practice all religions but Islam? (nt)

[biftonnorton]

2. Probably Had More To Do With His Music

We just couldn't take it anymore, and had to keep him out of our venues.

[LiberalVoice]

3. Are you insane!?!?!?

:wow: lol

Are you talking about Cat Stevens or Yusuf Islam? Cuz Cat Stevens was/is/always will be the SHIT!

[calico1]

6. Ah yes, his music.

Those violent, hateful lyrics. How could I have forgotten-- "Peace Train." :eyes:

[PsychoDad]

4. This is ridiculous!

The crusade has gone after Yusuf Islam/Cat Stevens? This is just sheer madness and stupidity on a massive level!

[Stew225]

5. He was being followed by a

Moonshaddow!. Sorry, couldn't resist. I'm an old fart who has always loved the music of Cat Stevens.

And, color me old-fashioned or something but, I always respected his giving up his stardom to practice a belief to which he was obviously dedicated.

[trapper914]

7. He spoke out publicly against the Shrub's war...

...therefore, he MUST be a threat!

[slappypan]

8. Hate train soundin' louder ...

ride on the hate train!

[Moderator]

9. Duplicate

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=102&topic_id=844254

[mbperrin]

10. Thank goodness they stopped him in time! He just re-released

Peace Train! Coming here in person might have convinced one more person that killing brown people for oil is wrong, and we CAIN'T have that!!!!!!!

Next: that dangerous Joan Baez!