I worked as a taxi driver in Downtown Los Angeles many years ago. During that time, it was a common grievance among several Black entertainers that taxis often bypassed them. This concern was indeed grounded in reality. Many drivers, myself included, wouldn't stop for young Black men. This caution was not limited to any driver of any race; even Black taxi drivers were similarly cautious.
The reasoning behind this caution was statistically driven: 85% of reported cab robberies at the time involved young Black and Latino men. However, this statistic does not reflect the majority of young Black men who were simply going about their daily lives, seeking a ride to get home or to their workplace.
Reflecting on this issue, it's clear that the solution isn't just for drivers to disregard their safety concerns. A more effective approach would be to address the root socio-economic factors that contribute to higher crime rates among young Black men.
I worked as a taxi driver in Downtown Los Angeles many years ago. During that time, it was a common grievance among several Black entertainers that taxis often bypassed them. This concern was indeed grounded in reality. Many drivers, myself included, wouldn't stop for young Black men. This caution was not limited to any driver of any race; even Black taxi drivers were similarly cautious.
The reasoning behind this caution was statistically driven: 85% of reported cab robberies at the time involved young Black and Latino men. However, this statistic does not reflect the majority of young Black men who were simply going about their daily lives, seeking a ride to get home or to their workplace.
Reflecting on this issue, it's clear that the solution isn't just for drivers to disregard their safety concerns. A more effective approach would be to address the root socio-economic factors that contribute to higher crime rates among young Black men.
Forget the socio-economic factors and concentrate on the violent, no impulse control, culture they have built over the last 6 decades.
And remember, this is as good as it gets.