Photo: Ariana Drehsler
After driving Uber in California for almost 6 years, I came to feel social injustice in my bones and saw how it could destroy peoples lives
Check out interviews and pictures here
Because this silent pandemic of unconscious capitalism is spreading. In the US, unions are dwindling, and the fight for workers' rights is an uphill battle. Economic independence and flexible schedules were dangled before drivers, only to be snatched away as gig companies lobbied for Proposition 22 in California. These giants are now crafting their own laws, leaving drivers far from independence and perilously close to economic ruin. As always, it's the taxpayers who foot the bill for emergency services in the absence of sick pay, disability, or insurance.
"The Gig is Rigged"
After nearly 6 years navigating the California roads with Uber, I felt the pulse of social injustice coursing through my veins. What started as a love for driving and connecting with people unfolded into a stark realization: Uber and Lyft, the very platforms promising economic independence, were exploiting workers with little regard for their safety or well-being.
Even as a citizen of Norway, my heart sank to learn that the Norwegian oil fund holds Uber stock. In a country where unions play a crucial role in maintaining high living standards, it's disheartening to see investments in a company blatantly violating workers' rights. Challenges faced by drivers include arbitrary deactivation, unpredictable pay decreases, lack of disability or sick pay, and looming safety concerns.
What can you do?
Join RDU or your local union efforts
Engage your passengers—many believe you're receiving a more significant share of the fare
Speak up—talk to friends and local politicians
Use Social Media
Listen to 3 rideshare drivers talk about their challenges and crazy stories here:
Moreover, consider this: the gig economy's exploitative nature isn't confined to rideshare. As it continues to grow, it threatens to consume more traditional jobs, widening the gap between social classes. Let's honk for justice and expose the rigged reality of the gig economy before it claims even more jobs and deepens the divides in our society!