The Architecture of Surveillance in Northern Virginia

The unfreedom we often fear is real, and it’s visible everywhere

Back in November, I had to drop off my bus at one of the county garages for a minor repair.  On the way, I radioed dispatch and said I’d need a ride back to the lot where my car was parked.  I dallied outside the garage office, on the clock, until my ride ambled along and scooped me up. 

The driver was inquisitive and after learning that I was relatively new asked if I enjoy my work.  Not wanting to reveal too much about myself—I hate mixing politics with chitchat—I started joke-complaining about how goddamn hard it is to find the garage.  The gambit worked.  My new friend told me a funny story about his first year on the job. 

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