The canary has been screaming its lungs out since Bill Clinton introduced his racist anti-immigrant bill in 1997, but both Republicans and Democrats have not only ignored its cries, but hastened its situation. Both parties have created this. Don’t think this won’t affect us all.
Another 40+ year old white guy here. The last time I remember extra security checks – not counting a quick wand or pat because the scanner got confused with a belt or bunched up clothing – was probably 15 years ago.
I was bringing home some parts on a business trip. They were pressure-loaded gas pistons to help lift heavy lids on equipment. Basically shorter, wider versions of the pistons that might raise the rear window or the hatchback in a car. I had half a dozen of them bunched up in the bottom of my backpack. On the x-ray it probably looked like a cartoonish bunch of dynamite sticks, or at least oddly shaped pipe bombs.
I don’t think I even left the area. I immediately realized what happened, told them what it was, and I think they even let me reach in the bag to pull one out and show them.
I did get one other “random” check in my life where we went into a side room for just a pat down. That was a long-ass time ago though. I want to say when the scanner tech was new and I was a lot fatter, lol.
The sad thing now is that there’s no need to talk sarcastically about “random” searches, and try to prove whether there is bias. These ghouls are all mask-off now.
Hell, if anything I could see “well dressed” being another red flag on top of the “brown” one. I can hear the TSA thought processes now: “That one” has something to hide, or is a drug dealer, or something equally stupid.
I had a friend who got pulled over for being in a car full of nicely dressed young white guys in a certain neighborhood because it was assumed they were there to either buy or sell drugs. They were just lost and had drive into the wrong neighborhood, as this was back before ubiquitous smartphones.
I get a pat down every time I go through an airport because my long hair sets off the scanner and they have to make sure i don’t have anything hidden in the small of my back. Also a white dude. Doesn’t help that my ID photo gives off distinct unabomber vibes.
I frequently get asked if I’ve got weed or if I’m selling weed, both by the cops and random strangers. I never have weed. It’s weird the things people conclude based on appearance.