gement | My TSA report to the ACLU

Pasted directly from the ACLU report form:

I was selected randomly for extra inspection on my November 30 flight from Seattle.

There were signs up explaining the scanners and the opt-out options, but I was funneled into the scanner line so fast that if I had not understood my choices independently in advance I would not have known when to opt out. Several other people were scanned while I waited for a pat-down, confirming my impression that I wouldn't have known when to stop them.

The pat-down process was absolutely by the book and professional. They were clearly prepared for protesters and wanted to show they were doing it right. I was not separated from my luggage. The woman who patted me down was professional and straightforward. She offered me the option of a private room, explained the procedure, did not make contact past what was described in the official procedure.

I chose to be screened in public and asked if she would please change her gloves. She smiled, said "That's why I put on two pair, in case people ask," and removed an outer pair of gloves. I was patted down in a clear designated area with my friends in full view and everything was routine.

I am writing this report because I was shaking, crying, and jumpy about touching for two hours afterward. I do not have a history of abuse or sexual violence and I am not shy about physical contact. I did not expect to be frightened by this process.

I was traveling with a transgender woman and a very heavy woman, both of whom have significant issues about being touched and expected to be singled out for discrimination. They thanked me for "taking one for the team." I thought I would be glad to do it. I thought it would be fine. I was shaking too hard to tie my own shoes afterward.

The process as it is officially mandated left me in emotional shock and feeling like a trapped animal. It's just not acceptable as a random level of inspection, no matter how professionally conducted.