I had to find out more about the taxi drivers. I visited the New York Taxi Workers Alliance (NYTWA) web site. I am amazed. It never crossed my mind until reading Das Gupta’s Unruly Immigrants that taxi drivers had it so bad.
The organization is not based on cultural or ethnic background; rather it is based on a common occupation: taxi driving. The members vary on levels of ownership of the vehicles. Some own the car (18%), others are in the process of purchasing (40%), and still others rent or lease the car (25%). Because the ownership varies, so does the maintenance responsibility. Those who own or are purchasing the cab must keep up with all the maintenance. Those who lease are free from this burden but have daily fees and cost for using the vehicle. In either circumstance, the cab drivers are spending money daily or weekly in order to make money.
Another interesting fact about taxi drivers is the large lack of health care benefits. 80% of the full time drivers in New York are uninsured! This is unbelievable. Not only are they uninsured but they are not making enough money to cover any health emergencies. And these taxi drivers could be at risk of violence. Just as recently as August of 2010, a man was attacked by a passenger in a hate crime.
The NWYTA believes that “there is more than ample money in the industry to cover such benefits” and they currently have a Health Rights campaign under way to progress this idea. Despite of the problems that face taxi drivers, the NWYTA sets up health fairs to provide information, screenings, and advice. This is thanks to many generous healthcare providers, charities, school, social services, and many others. Not only is health service provided, but also legal and financial advice.
It is amazing how much this organization does for its members. With the $100 yearly fee, there are many benefits. They include discounts for vision and dental care and many others things, free life insurance ($5,000), free computer classes (drivers and family members), and legal consultation. These benefits seem well worth $100 a year.
It is difficult for me to understand the lifestyle these taxi drivers have. They are living not only from paycheck to paycheck, but from day to day. Also it seems impossible to catch up, to break even. If you can’t break even, it must be even more impossible to make changes in your life, saving for things such as health care, education, or even family expenses.
On a lighter note, the NYTWA is proud to be the “ambassadors” of the city. They greet newcomers and bid them good bye. They are often the first and last to be seen at the airport. The taxi drivers are always available. Many work 12 hour days for 6 or 7 days a week. In one sense, they are the face of the city. And even though they are faced with difficulties, their words have a positive ring to them. “Justice delayed will not be justice denied.” They are in it for the long haul and make it clear that it will be worth the wait to make sure that change is made.
