Unfortunately, the recent events seem to have driven many Americans towards thoughts or behavior previously unacceptable.

"A CNN/USA Today/Gallup poll taken a few days after the attacks showed that Americans were supporting special measures intended for those of Arab descent. In the survey, 58 percent backed more intensive security checks for Arabs, including those who are United States citizens, compared with other travelers; 49 percent favored special identification cards for such people, and 32 percent backed "special surveillance" for them."

http://www.nytimes.com/2001/09/23/na...chpv=past7days