Security procedures in airports have come under heavy scrutiny in the past month. The threat of recently foiled terrorist attempts and the addition of a full body scan machine with the alternative of a thorough pat-down search are in the spotlight of the debate.
But my review of the subject will touch parts of America’s intimacy that aren’t easily exposed — even by an anti-terrorist measure.
Many of the people polled or interviewed on the controversial procedure feel if these measures are what it takes to fly without the fear of being exploded by an extremist lunatic, then let’s go with it.
On the other hand, most who complain about the radiation from the full body scan and the thorough pat-down are concerned about their “dignity,” understandably uncomfortable being touched by complete strangers.
I don’t think the procedure would be controversial in Brazil. It wouldn’t even be an issue at all.
Believe me, it’s something Latin Americans joke about when living in the U.S. For reasons that a 600-word article could never explain, Americans share the intrinsic notion that “the other” is always a threat, unless proven innocent.
I learned this lesson quickly.
Don’t get too close to the person in front of you in the Highland Coffees’ line, especially if it’s a girl. You will be considered a “creeper” if you invade her space. In addition, don’t place your hands on the shoulder of the person you are talking to. It can be misinterpreted as an assault.
“The other” is always a threat unless he or she gives you enough reasons to believe it’s safe to interact with them.
Even so, it will take a while to achieve trust — if ever.
As for the security problem, it’s always the same incoherence. Millions of us are going to deal with these new security measures, whether we like it or not. The reason: A few people have harmful, criminal intentions.
We all pay and will continue to do so for what a small group of hateful people decided to do.
For those currently wondering “is this guy in favor or against the procedure?” “what is his opinion?” or “I don’t see percentages or quantitative data proving his point” — my apologies.
Spoiler alert: In the end, I find both sides of the discussion outrageous.
On one side there are those who have no problem giving up their civil rights by letting a scan emit noxious radiation and showing officers whether you are circumcised or going through your monthlies. And on the other are those who feel outraged by a pair of hands touching their sacred and undignified bodies — yeah, right.
Too bad that’s the defense in the war against terrorism.
The question is: Do we trust the procedure is preventing terrorists from doing their nasty jobs?
Who’s the real threat: The terrorists or the hands of the Transportation Security Administration?
Apparently both.
Nevertheless, the issue lingers in the back of the minds of millions of Americans.
The U.S. is still convinced it will suffer an attack. And these fears cover many facets: the fear of being exploded, fear of being touched and fear of “the other.”
When traveling, if you opt for the scan, make sure to wear beautiful underwear.
And if you opt out, well, try to enjoy the pat-down. There’s no dignity in being searched for explosives on the most intimate areas of your body, but there should be no shame in proving you aren’t.
Marcelo Vieira is a 32-year-old jazz cello graduate student from Brazil. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_Mvieira.
 
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Contact Marcelo Vieira at [email protected]