Growing up in Western North Carolina, my high school has always felt like a sanctuary — a place where we could learn, grow, and connect with our community without constantly feeling surveilled. Recently, however, that sense of safety has been compromised with the installation of Flock cameras outside our school.

Flock Safety cameras are rapidly being deployed in neighborhoods and public spaces across the country, all under the guise of enhancing security. While these cameras may deter crime, they do so at the cost of our freedom and privacy. Here in Western North Carolina, the presence of such cameras by our school not only invades personal privacy but also instills an atmosphere of constant surveillance among students and faculty.

Research from the American Civil Liberties Union highlights the potential misuse and danger of such surveillance technologies. Not only do they have the potential to disproportionately target marginalized communities, but the data collected by these cameras can be misused or shared without our consent. In fact, studies indicate that increased surveillance does not necessarily result in significant crime reduction, but rather erodes trust between communities and law enforcement.

Furthermore, the psychological impact on students cannot be overlooked. Psychologists have documented how constant surveillance can lead to heightened levels of stress and anxiety among individuals, particularly younger people who are still developing their understanding of privacy and autonomy. Instead of fostering a welcoming educational environment, the presence of Flock cameras only serves to inhibit the free expression and growth essential to student development.

We need to prioritize initiatives that genuinely protect our communities while respecting our rights. Collaborative efforts between local law enforcement and community leaders can create more effective and less intrusive security measures. We should focus on programs that foster community involvement and trust, rather than resorting to invasive surveillance technologies.

I urge local governments, community leaders, and concerned residents of Western North Carolina to join me in demanding the removal of Flock cameras from sensitive areas like schools and public spaces. Together, we can ensure that our communities remain both safe and free.

Please sign this petition to protect our privacy, honor our community values, and stop the installation of Flock cameras in our beloved Western North Carolina.