John Doe And The Nation’s Security

On May 14, Congressmen Steven Pearce, Rep. Peter King and Rep. Bill Shuster introduced HR 2291, which would grant immunity to anyone who reports suspicious activity involving the possible threat to transportation or the safety and security of transportation. This resolution is a direct result of the “Flying Imams” case in November of 2006.

Why anyone in Congress would be opposed to this legislation is beyond me. When we have terrorists that want to destroy America, with their preferred choice being public transportation, it is every American’s duty to report any activity that seems out of the ordinary.

I understand that some people believe, because they have only read headlines or talking points, that the “Imams” were targeted because they were Muslim and praying loudly, nothing more. They were doing more than praying. Praying in public is a constitutional right that all religions enjoy in the U.S., but when you combine prayer with constant moving around in an erratic manner, yelling, and refusal to abide by the requests of the flight attendants to have a seat, any reasonable and prudent person would believe that the activity is threatening and out of the ordinary.

It is very important that citizens be able to report suspicious activity without fear of civil liability. In an age where we have people that want to destroy America, there is not enough law enforcement to go around. Even without the threat of terrorism, police are not able to keep up with crime. Extra eyes and ears are necessary in order to keep our Republic safe.