The Cab Literacy of Black People in New York: Debunking Myths and Clarifying Realities

Expanding from personal experiences in various cities, this article aims to address misconceptions surrounding the accessibility of yellow cabs for Black people in New York City. Urban myths suggest that Black individuals face significant barriers in getting a cab, particularly citing statistics and personal anecdotes. However, through a comprehensive exploration, we will challenge these assumptions and provide a more balanced perspective.

Addressing the Myth: Are Black People Really Struggling to Ride a Cab?

The common assertion that Black individuals in New York struggle to catch a cab is a myth that lacks substantial evidence. By exploring various factors including the statistical basis of imprisonment rates and practical commuting experiences in New York City, we will debunk this claim.

Understanding Statistics and Reality

It's crucial to step back and consider the broader societal context. According to the US Bureau of Justice Statistics, 1 in 3 Black males is involved with the corrections system. While this figure might seem alarming, it's important to recognize that this doesn't mean every Black person in New York is facing barriers to ride a cab. Moreover, statistics show that Black people represent 13.5% of the total population but make up 47% of the prison population. This statistic is a result of various systemic issues within the US criminal justice system and does not inherently translate to difficulties in accessing transportation.

Personal Experiences and Evidence

My personal experiences in New York City, particularly in Harlem, provide a different perspective. I have worked in the MetLife building, close to Grand Central, and I never encountered issues with catching a yellow cab. The cab drivers, whether white, Black, or of other ethnicities, were courteous and willing to assist me, irrespective of my race. Similar experiences were noted when my company arranged for a black car for me to use while on crutches. These anecdotal observations suggest that race, while a factor, is not the only or even the primary determinant of cab accessibility.

Challenges in the Upper East Side

In contrast, hailing a cab north of 110th Street presents a different challenge. The scarcity of green cabs and the restrictions on yellow cab operations in certain areas can make it more difficult to secure a ride. Moreover, some yellow cab drivers are less likely to pick up passengers from the Upper East Side, which can contribute to the perception of difficulty in catching a cab. This is not unique to black individuals but a more general issue faced by all commuters in certain areas of the city.

Additionally, there have been instances of violence and attacks against black car drivers, particularly those providing ride-sharing services like black cars. The lack of protective features in their vehicles, such as shields between the front and back seats, puts them at an increased risk. This has led to a heightened level of caution among these drivers when picking up passengers, especially young Black men. Due to these safety concerns, it is not uncommon for black car drivers to be more selective about their passengers.

Addressing Concerns and Seeking Solutions

Given these challenges, it's important to address them directly rather than perpetuating myths. Firstly, expanding the presence of yellow cabs in upper Manhattan and beyond could alleviate some of the issues. Secondly, improving safety measures for ride-sharing drivers can ensure that all drivers feel confident in providing their services. Lastly, increasing awareness and understanding among the driving community can help foster a more inclusive environment for all commuters.

Conclusion

While there are challenges in accessing yellow cabs in certain areas of New York City, attributing these issues solely to racial discrimination is an oversimplification. Statistics and personal experiences suggest that black individuals do not face insurmountable barriers in catching a cab, but other factors such as location, time of day, and safety concerns do play a role. Addressing these practical issues through increased access and improved safety measures can help ensure that all New Yorkers, regardless of race, can access transportation with ease.

By examining these issues in a nuanced manner, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable transportation system in New York City.