Security vs Freedom

[Ohio Bob]

Maybe we should go back and listen to some of the men who founded this great nation. "They who can give up Essential Liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." - Benjamin Franklin

[Guest]

Some of the security changes since 9-11 should have been in place prior to this event. Others, unfortunately, were, in my opinion, knee jerk reactions to the attacks. Living in Europe during the 1970s I remember the activities of small terrorist organizations operating during that time. Traveling extensively between the nations of Europe, I was accustomed to crossing national borders. Moving to Michigan in the late 1970s I could not believe the ease of traveling between Canada and the USA. Even though the friendship between these two nations should be the envy of the world, the border crossings should have been more secure prior to any terrorist attack. I sympathize with the law enforcement agencies tasked with preventing another attack. As with those who serve in our fire and police departments, and the military, these individuals are compensated nowhere near what they deserve. That being said, there is no reason that our security should come at the cost of our personal freedoms. If we allow this to happen, then the terrorists have already won. Shortly after the 9-11 attacks, the internet was abound with stories of ship photographers being told they were not allowed to take photographs in certain places. One instance I seem to remember more than most was one poster being informed by the Border Patrol she could not take photographs from the public walkway that runs along the St. Clair River at Marysville. Although such ridiculous events have subsided in recent years, apparently they still occur. During the 25 years I have been taking pictures I have never encountered any such problem. If I'm ever confronted with this situation I will use the one poster's idea of questioning what law is being enforced so I can personally look it up.

[Guest]

Keep this with your camera gear: http://www.krages.com/phoright.htm

That's actually worked for me to shut several people up when confronted. I highly recommend that to anyone.

[Guest]

Keep this with your camera gear: http://www.krages.com/phoright.htm

[KenB]

Our freedom is only withering away if we allow it. If you are on public property you can take pictures. Some people come up with their own laws but when asked what law or details they have no idea. Its a cop out to say 911.
You have rights. You do not have to be rude or extreme but usually a question like "what law is it so I can look it up?" will usually stop some people from harassing you.

[Guest]

That's news to me.

Sounds like an employee having a bad day.

[Paul Beesley]

This morning I was taking photos from a small boat in Portland, Maine. The Capt of a particular tug/barge combination which was at an unloading facility came out on deck and told me you are no longer allowed to take photos of ships at these facilities.

I'm afraid the 'Land of the Free' is withering on the vine.