The Growth and Disruption of a “Free Space”: Examining a Suburban Do It Yourself (DIY) Punk Scene

Abstract

This article builds on the literature on “free spaces.” The authors address several under examined aspects of this concept through an exploration of the Long Island Do It Yourself (DIY) punk scene. The DIY scene can be understood as a prefigurative space where particular values were espoused and celebrated. The authors analyze how participants understood the free space as well as the specific values that came along with identifying themselves as scene members. When these ideals clashed with a different conception of what the punk scene was all about, the “freeness” of the space came into question. This article examines the debate that occurred when the free space was thoroughly disrupted because of the intention of a popular band in the scene to sign a record contract. The authors conclude that although the infrastructure of spaces in the punk scene was strong, this did not preempt the development of an ideological schism.