See Something, Say Something... Say Whaaaat?

Ever since the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, the U.S. government has urged people to be extra vigilant about activities they see. In some ways, the effort seemed to go too far toward the alarmist direction, especially during the period immediately following the attacks. As if the frequent evacuations and military planes flying overhead D.C. skies weren't enough to remind one of danger, it became impossible to miss highway notices like "Report Suspicious Activity." They were and still are constant reminders that the country is under attack.

Since its start, the campaign seemed a little creepy. Calling on people to report undefined "suspicious activities" has a Stasi-like feel. I envision the Gladys Kravitzes of the world busying themselves with the affairs of their neighbors so they can report all their random oddities. (I'd like to know how many of these calls 911 operators field.)

DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano is reviving the campaign. And, it appears she is revamping it to include more specifics about what activities are in fact suspicious. This sounds like an improvement, and I hope it is. A DHS web page about the campaign does emphasize respect for civil rights and civil liberties.

I still don't like the campaign title. As polls and news reports show, too many people are suspicious about people from different religions, races and ethnic backgrounds. The current campaign may only heighten these suspicions.

I admit, however, that there is a need to instill a greater sense of responsibility in people. I can remember several metro rides in Washington, D.C. where no one but me would acknowledge or report unattended bags left in the metro car. Nevertheless, I'd like DHS to change the name. "Shared Effort, Shared Responsibility" has a nice ring.