Interview with Shadi Petosky, who was detained by the TSA because she's transgender

Yesterday I interviewed Shadi Petosky, a transgender television writer and producer who was detained by the TSA in Orlando on Monday because of her trans status. The quote Salon chose as part of the headline, that will give you a little clue if you haven't heard about this story what it was like for her: "The police at the TSA gate were awful. One was laughing at me"

The bane of my existence

I'm living for the next 2 weeks sans ID. I don't drive and don't have a license so I carry my passport around with my everywhere. Last week, I wasn't sure I'd even make it to St. Louis, but the TSA at both La Guardia and St. Louis were very nice. Despite tightening security rules last year, there is a grace period. And apparently, a significant number of people who relish traveling without ID. I guess I am not a "die-hard Constituionalist" like some and also, I am such a horrible traveler that for me to try to fly without ID would just be inviting trouble. I mean, I'm lucky to get to the airport on time. So, fingers crossed, my expedited passport will be worth the approximately $160 I spent on postage and fees.

I didn't really think it would be a problem since I don't drink, but already, it's causing stress. Will I get in to the Greenpoint Chess Club at Bar Matchless? Will I get in to The Martha Stewart Show cupcake show taping tomorrow? Who knows?

The good news is, my new ID should be good for 10 years, not 1, like the one I had to get at the London Embassy last January. I may even go crazy and get a NY State non-drivers ID card!