This confrontation needs to be met. I think I’m madder at the troop leader and the scouts’ parents than I am about the stupid border agent.
I agree. What important civics lesson does the scout leader mean to imply was learned by his troop? That federal authorities have a right to deny your First Amendment rights whenever they want to?
According to the ACLU:
"Taking photographs of things that are plainly visible from public spaces is a constitutional right – and that includes federal buildings, transportation facilities, and police and other government officials carrying out their duties. Unfortunately, there is a widespread, continuing pattern of law enforcement officers ordering people to stop taking photographs from public places, and harassing, detaining and arresting those who fail to comply."
"When in public spaces where you are lawfully present you have the right to photograph anything that is in plain view. That includes pictures of federal buildings, transportation facilities, and police. Such photography is a form of public oversight over the government and is important in a free society."