Whether the trip was "that important" or not should have no bearing on my choice to fly (although I don't intend to ever fly again, unless there is a compelling emergency).
Like almost all others, I was not there to protest. As for being "subservient," I prefer NOT to go to jail, while at the same time--just like millions of others--I did not want to miss my flight and spend who knows how much more money on another way home.
Clearly we have differing standards.
I choose not to fly commercial due to ample evidence of prior violations.
Again, until more refuse to fly, nothing will change and, sadly, your experience is pathetic evidence of the fact that even reading of such violations are insufficient to prompt action. Human nature may very well be this country’s downfall.
I’m not going to continue to beat a dead horse: You made a choice and despite knowledge that it could happen, you’re now outraged that it happened to you.
I challenge you to take your newfound outrage and do more than writing anonymously about a decision for which only you were responsible.