Everyone On the Bus: Rider-Driver Alliances

[Omaha Steve]

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http://www.labornotes.org/2014/09/everyone-bus-rider-driver-alliances




Detroit bus riders and drivers demand better transit. Community groups, often calling themselves bus riders unions, are popping up all over the country—and make ready allies for willing unions. Photo: Jim West, jimwestphoto.com. - See more at: http://www.labornotes.org/2014/09/everyone-bus-rider-driver-alliances#sthash.U6Vd6gg6.dpuf

September 30, 2014 / Julia Kann

When Barbara Lott-Holland was laid off, she couldn’t afford to keep her car, so she used public transit to get to temp jobs around Los Angeles.

People like her risk losing hours, or even their jobs, when bus service is cut. It’s one way cuts “put a physical, mental, and economic strain on that community,” said Lott-Holland, now co-chair of the L.A. Bus Riders Union (BRU).

The effects are similar on the drivers, mechanics, and office workers who make public transportation run.

With so much common interest, there are plenty of opportunities for solidarity between transit riders and drivers. Community groups, often calling themselves bus riders unions, are popping up all over the country—and make ready allies for willing unions.

THEY’RE ON THE BUS

FULL story at link.