The NYPD asked to search my bag before I got on the subway this morning. I refused, politely exited the station, and walked to the next one.

It doesn’t doesn’t matter what was or wasn’t in my bag (in this case, wasn’t). I passionately believe that this invasion of privacy provides little more than the illusion of security. The searches are suspicionless and announced from a mile away. Do they really expect to stop a bomber this way? It feels like giving up privacy for nothing.

When I told my coworkers the story after arriving (especially) late to work this morning, many were surprised that I was able to get away with it. Fortunately I didn’t have to away with anything, I just knew my rights. You should too. As a public service announcement for those living in New York, here’s what you need to know about random subway bag searches -

- You are free to refuse a search, though if you do you’ll have to exit the station.
- The police can’t use your refusal as grounds for arrest.
- You don’t have to show ID, immigration papers, or anything of the sort.
- You don’t have to be polite, but it’s probably smart.

More reading, including the very frightening warning, “Do not physically resist arrest. DO NOT RUN,” at FlexYourRights.org