This information comes as a big relief, because for the past few months, I thought I might be one.
The Department of Homeland Security, earlier this week, notified me that officials concluded that I have no terrorist affiliation. I started to believe that I could have ties of that nature. My doubt stemmed from two unpleasant incidents I experienced while crossing by foot from Mexico into the United States.
Twice in a row, Customs and Border Protection officers pulled me out of line and escorted me to a room for secondary inspection. Experience has taught me to be wary of cops. So, I was apprehensive as I was escorted, not simply directed, to the appropriate room, about 40 feet away from the line. Did the cops think I might try to escape, and thus required an escort?
The inspections involved a deep online look at me. I sent a complaint to DHS, saying I was needlessly humiliated. Why was I subjected to such treatment.
Here is part of the cryptic reply: “DHS TRIP has researched and completed our review of your case. DHS TRIP can neither confirm nor deny any information about you which may be within federal watchlists or reveal any law enforcement sensitive information.”
Somewhat ominously, the letter noted that “about 2% of the DHS TRIP complainants actually have some connection to the Terrorist Watchlist.”
My translation is that we have nothing on you. At least for now.
Ricardo Chavira Chicano 