What consumer-related agency wouldn’t want to be the topic of conversation at virtually every dinner table throughout America this Thursday? Quite possibly the TSA would prefer to opt out of such an honor this year, and yet they have set themselves up for being the talk of the town – each and every one of them.
The Transportation Security Administration implemented what they have termed “enhanced security measures” starting in November 2010. What the rhyme or reason was behind the timing is unknown, but by putting them in place just days before what is known as one of the heaviest commercial flight volume periods during the calendar year the TSA has effectively ensured they will be talked about – the good, the bad, and the ugly – right down to the texture of their latex gloves.
With so many Americans taking to the skies to be with family members, who will likely have varying opinions regarding politics, societal concerns and the like, it is a given this hot topic could lead to some tense moments over the stuffing and sweet potatoes. Aunts and uncles will have first-hand accounts of their screening procedures – why they opted for the pat-down rather than the full body scan – and will most likely present their opinion of why they think it was or wasn’t necessary. Cue the cousin who feels the new scanning procedures are an absolute necessity for the safety of the nation, personal rights and privacy being a commodity in times like these. Then the various sister or brother pipes up vehemently with their understanding of the 4th Amendment and how each and every flying American is now being treated as a guilty terrorist from the moment they purchase a ticket. We come full circle to the grandmother or grandfather who uses the almight trump card: “Remember 9/11. And eat your damn green beans.”
With variations to the above based on each family’s dynamic, the conversation will ensue and the public opinion will go through its own metamorphosis behind closed doors and in family dining rooms. Feathers may get ruffled, relationships may become strained, Black Friday shopping plans may be altered so family members aren’t stuck in line or in their car with the voice(s) dissenting with their opinion of the matter. But at the end of the holiday, the travelers will head back to the airport to subject themselves to the same hands-on scrutiny with which they arrived. The only question will be if their perspective is changed from the discussions at the table between passing the gravy and mashed potatoes.
Happy Thanksgiving, and remember to keep it respectful while expressing your thoughts about the TSA. And make sure to ask if anyone has a latex allergy before you begin.
