Independent Drivers Guild New York Rallies to Fight Unfair Tax on Rideshare Workers!

This month, hundreds of IDG rideshare drivers hit the streets to tell Governor Hochul to exempt us from the upcoming congestion pricing plan in New York. And the Governor’s office took notice: they invited us back for another meeting! We can’t say it enough: NY rideshare drivers should not be double-taxed! Since 2019, Uber and Lyft drivers in the state have been paying taxes and contributing our fair share to the MTA. We work hard every day to keep New York City moving, and this proposed tax could take up to $7,000 from our pay in a year. Please join us in calling on state officials to protect our pay and exempt rideshare drivers from the congestion tax now. Sign and share our petition now.

Massachusetts App Workers Enjoy Family Day as Drivers Gear Up for Action in July

On Juneteenth, Massachusetts drivers and their families came together to enjoy food and commemorate our shared history. With the ongoing battle for a union and a voice in determining our pay and rights, our event on Juneteenth, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, served as a powerful reminder of our collective strength. It was a heartwarming celebration of our vibrant driver community, bringing together drivers from all backgrounds. At the appreciation day, drivers discussed our next action on July 11 as a powerful catalyst to challenge industry giants like Uber and Lyft and secure a better future for ourselves through the Rideshare Driver Justice Bill. If you have not signed up, make sure to RSVP to the July 11 action here.

Illinois Drivers Prepare for Chicago Gigfest 2023!

Calling all rideshare drivers and delivery workers in Illinois! We understand the challenges and hardships app workers face daily, from long hours to safety concerns and the constant threat of deactivation. That’s why IDG Illinois and Justice for App Workers Illinois are tirelessly working to bring about transformation in our industry. But amidst the fight for justice, we also recognize the importance of relaxation and taking a break within our community. That’s why we are thrilled to invite you and your family to join us at our highly anticipated second annual Chicago GigFest, taking place on July 29 from 11am-3pm!

This event is a fantastic opportunity to come together and celebrate the progress we’ve made. Enjoy delicious halal food, explore vendor stalls, partake in exciting games, and experience family fun, all free of charge! We extend a warm welcome to all app workers and their families, so be sure to spread the word and RSVP to GigFest. Mark your calendars and come join our community for a day of laughter and connection on July 29!

Save the Date for Driver Appreciation Day for New York Drivers and Families

We are thrilled to invite you to our highly anticipated Driver Appreciation Day, an event dedicated to honoring your hard work and building stronger connections within our local driver community! Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 29, and join us at Flushing Meadow Corona Park for a day filled with fun, laughter, and solidarity. Make sure to RSVP here!

During this special event, indulge in delicious complimentary food, groove to the beat of live music, and unleash your creativity with amazing face painting designs. But that’s not all – we are excited to announce that we will be giving away 300 FREE backpacks to assist drivers with their back-to-school shopping needs.

Driver Appreciation Day is more than just a celebration; it’s an opportunity to connect with fellow drivers, share stories, and build lasting friendships. So, mark your calendar, spread the word, and join us on July 29 at Flushing Meadow Corona Park for a day of well-deserved recognition, relaxation, and fun! Remember, all families are welcome, so bring your loved ones, and let’s make this year’s Driver Appreciation Day truly unforgettable.

Driver Spotlight: Meet Connecticut IDG Member Alickson Germonsen

Alickson Germosen is a dedicated member of Connecticut IDG and an experienced Uber driver with seven years of service under his belt. Originally from the Dominican Republic, Alickson began his journey as an Uber driver in 2016, starting in the bustling streets of New York City before relocating to Connecticut in 2020. With the freedom to create his own schedule, Alickson appreciates the flexibility that comes with being a rideshare driver, allowing him to balance his responsibilities as a husband and father of two children, aged six and two. Now, he is a part of the Connecticut IDG organizing team, helping connect with drivers every day.

Throughout his years in the rideshare industry, Alickson has witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by drivers, particularly concerning unjust deactivations and false reports made by riders seeking refunds. However, he found solace and support through his involvement with CT IDG. “I like to work with IDG because we help people,” Alickson explains. “We’re fighting for higher wages. We help people who are deactivated unfairly. We force Uber to put good people back on the road.”

Alickson’s personal experiences with deactivations have motivated him to be an advocate for drivers’ rights. Having endured deactivations in both New York and Connecticut, he knows the tremendous toll they take on drivers in terms of lost income and time. Despite the challenges, Alickson remains resilient and committed to the cause. He believes in the importance of IDG’s efforts in supporting drivers who have invested significant amounts of money in their vehicles, many of whom have families and bills to sustain.

One poignant example of IDG’s impact on Alickson’s life involves a close friend who was deactivated from airport pickups and drop-offs. After encountering an incident where five people attempted to enter his Uber, he let the party know they needed an Uber XL due to the number of passengers, but following the rules led to his deactivation. IDG intervened and successfully helped him regain his access to the airport, allowing him to resume his work. Alickson says that through the process of reinstatement, IDG’s unwavering support made all the difference.

Alickson also emphasizes his rising concerns regarding the financial aspects of rideshare driving. Initially, Uber only took a 15% to 20% cut from each ride, but now they claim over 50%, significantly impacting drivers’ earnings. Alickson points out that he often receives only $40 out of a $100 fare, with the remainder going to Uber. “As drivers, we face additional expenses such as oil changes. All that maintenance cuts into our pay.” In response to these challenges, IDG has been fighting for better conditions, including advocating for fairer revenue distribution and even pressing for proper restroom facilities at the airports.

We are grateful to have Alickson as a valued member of our community. His unwavering support for drivers’ rights and his commitment to helping others exemplify the spirit of the Independent Drivers Guild.

Happy Father’s Day from the Independent Drivers Guild

Happy Father’s Day from the Independent Drivers Guild! Today, we honor and appreciate all the hardworking rideshare drivers who also embrace the role of dedicated fathers. We recognize the tremendous effort you put into balancing your responsibilities as a driver and as a dad. Many of you have chosen this profession to have more time with your families and to fulfill your crucial family responsibilities. You work tirelessly to provide for your loved ones and create a better future for them. On this special day, we extend our deepest gratitude for your unwavering dedication and commitment. May your Father’s Day be filled with love, joy, and cherished moments with your family. Thank you for all that you do!

Independent Drivers Guild Wishes You a Happy Juneteenth and Eid al-Adha

The Independent Drivers Guild extends warm wishes to all Uber and Lyft drivers as we commemorate the significant holidays of Juneteenth and Eid al-Adha. These celebrations hold immense importance for our diverse driver community and resonate deeply with our ongoing fight for a union and fair treatment. Juneteenth symbolizes the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, reminding us of the long struggle for freedom and equality. Similarly, Eid al-Adha represents sacrifice, unity, and compassion, reflecting the values that bind us together as a community. As we observe these meaningful holidays, we reaffirm our commitment to securing a better future for all drivers, regardless of background or creed. Together, we stand united in our pursuit of justice, equity, and the establishment of a union that amplifies our voices. Happy Juneteenth and Eid al-Adha to each and every member of our resilient and diverse driver family!