Airline Database

The ACLU put out an alert that Bush is preparing to ram through the airline database that most likely seriously erode our privacies. Because this is so scary, I thought I'd post it for folks to use as I'm sure there are some here who aren't part of the ACLU network.

Here's the petition and here's the note the ACLU sent me:

From: Matt Howes, National Internet Organizer, ACLU
To: ACLU Action Network Members
Date: January 13, 2003

Despite strong opposition from airlines, privacy advocates and Members of Congress, the Bush Administration is pushing ahead with plans to implement a computerized airline passenger profiling program that would -- without making us any safer -- create secret blacklists of innocent people prevented from flying.

This new profiling system would use giant databases of personal information and secret intelligence information to perform a background check on any person who wishes to fly. Innocent people misidentified as terrorists could be barred from flying with no way of clearing their names.  

This system will not only create a false sense of security since terrorists will easily circumvent its basic protections, it will also compile private information about you and your family. Airlines have refused to participate in the program, but the Bush Administration is planning to mandate their involvement.

Take Action! Urge your Members of Congress to oppose this dangerous program."

I trust this was a legitimate use of a diary entry. If not, please let me know.