The College Fix

Every year, millions of people jet off into the wild blue yonder, flying safely through United States airspace inspected by the Transportation Security Administration. These fliers usually arrive at their intended destination. But what if they don’t? What if something goes terribly wrong? One moment all is well; the next moment you’re at the mercy of those with the intent to kill.

I’m not here to defend any practices by the TSA, nor am I a spokesman for the government agency. Instead, I’d like to remind everyone that as thousands of Americans claim to feel exploited by the new policies of the TSA, the employees in charge of our security every day are only human.

Yes, the pat downs, in which employees are instructed to get up-close and personal, are considered invasive by some. I was recently given a not-so-pleasant inspection massage by a helpful agent. As I discovered, my “junk” was apparently plane-safe and not a flight risk. Nice.

Furthermore, the backscatter technology is not perfect. Sure, they’re not recording the images, but there are definitely still risks. It’s no doubt that there are severe vulnerabilities along the spectrum of personal privacy, but there’s also the argument that passengers agree to being searched by purchasing an airline ticket.

But I don’t want to focus on whether or not the decision makers of the TSA are abusing their power. I’m not here to argue for or against them. If you are angry with the TSA, you can take it out on them. Give them a call. In fact, here’s their number: 1-866-289-9673. What bothers me is the approach of the “Opt-Out Day” crew. The notion that the ladies and gentlemen who are literally the security divide between the streets and the skies are somehow culpable for the decisions of their employer (the US government) is not only foolish, but it’s false. The last thing this country needs is to be mistreating the people who, like it or not, are actively defending not only our lives, but the welfare of the airline industry.

There is no doubt that there will be individual ethical lapses; sooner or later a TSA agent will cross the line between professional and perverted. But punishing the entire pool of men and women for rules to which we agree by flying is cruel. It is a serious misdirection of aggression.

If you don’t like TSA, there are outlets by which to offer your opinion. If you’re truly uncomfortable with the new screening methods and plan to make a fuss, however, do us all a favor: Don’t fly.

Zachary Gorelick is a staff writer for the GW Patriot. He is a contributor to the Student Free Press Association.

Like The College Fix on Facebook / Follow us on Twitter