Simultaneously, thousands of rideshare drivers went on strike on Valentine's Day, protesting against the exploitative working conditions imposed by companies like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash. These drivers, often classified as independent contractors, endure long hours and low pay rates, with diminishing earnings exacerbated by cuts in delivery fees.
Faced with mounting financial pressures, drivers are demanding fair compensation for their labor. They seek better pay and improved working conditions to ensure their livelihoods are sustainable and dignified. Drivers of ridesharing apps are considered part of the “gig economy” as they operate as independent contractors. For years members of these groups have been fighting for higher pay, as their wages are easily exploited given they are not full-time salaried members of their companies.
Gig economy workers typically also have fewer protections, meaning companies like Uber and DoorDash can easily profit off their employees without having to give them as many benefits or wages as their competitors.
The group Justice for App Workers says that its members totaling 130,000 will refuse all rides to and from airports today in 10 major cities, creating another potential disruption at major airports throughout the country.