I know nothing about the politics of this organization, but their “I am not afraid” campaign is something I can certainly get behind. I think we should all send a letter like this to our elected officials, whatever country we’re in:
I am not afraid of terrorism, and I want you to stop being afraid on my behalf. Please start scaling back the official government war on terror. Please replace it with a smaller, more focused anti-terrorist police effort in keeping with the rule of law. Please stop overreacting. I understand that it will not be possible to stop all terrorist acts. I accept that. I am not afraid.
Refuse to be terrorized, and you deny the terrorists their most potent weapon—your fear.
EDITED TO ADD (12/21): There’s also this video.
And Chicago opens a new front on the war on the unexpected, trying to scare everybody:
Each year, the Winter Holiday Season tends to spur larger crowds and increased traffic throughout the City. As it pertains to shopping districts, public transportation routes, and all other places of public assembly, the increased crowds become a matter of Homeland Security concern. During this holiday period, as a matter of public safety, we ask that all members of the general public heighten their awareness regarding any and all suspicious activity that may be an indicator of a threat to public safety. It is important to immediately report any or all of the below suspect activities.
- Physical Surveillance (note taking, binocular use, cameras, video, maps)
- Attempts to gain sensitive information regarding key facilities
- Attempts to penetrate or test physical security / response procedures
- Attempts to improperly acquire explosives, weapons, ammunition, dangerous chemicals, etc.
- Suspicious or improper attempts to acquire official vehicles, uniforms, badges or access devices
- Presence of individuals who do not appear to belong in workplaces, business establishments, or near key facilities
- Mapping out routes, playing out scenarios, monitoring key facilities, timing traffic lights
- Stockpiling suspicious materials or abandoning potential containers for explosives (e.g., vehicles, suitcases, etc)
- Suspicious reporting of lost or stolen identification
This may be real or it may be a hoax; I don’t know.
And this is probably my last post on the war on the unexpected. There are simply too many examples.
Posted on December 21, 2007 at 7:26 AM •
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