Uber, a popular ridesharing company, has been known for thinking outside of the box and changing the taxi industry. However, one area in which the company lacks progression is with gender identity. The company’s application currently makes it difficult for transgender drivers to correctly identify themselves and are getting kicked off the application.
ID Verification Proves Tricky
While Uber has tried the very best to uphold a safe and secure environment for both passengers and drivers, it appears to be one of these features at issue. Since 2016, Real-Time ID Check requires drivers to take a selfie to verify their identity. Using Microsoft cognitive services, this photo is compared to the one that the company has on file. However, when a photo does not register as a match to other photos on file, it gets flagged and temporarily or permanently suspends the driver in question. For those individuals transitioning their gender and changing their physical appearance, this has proved most problematic.
The feature was put into effect to protect riders from getting in cars with people who are not actually registered Uber drivers. Yet, drivers who have been sure to update photos throughout their transition are still running into problems.
Looking to Progress
Despite the issues caused by over-automation, Uber has been progressive in other aspects. According to an Uber spokesperson, the company released a new feature in April that allows its internal employees to select their preferred choice of pronouns. However, this is not yet available to Uber drivers and riders.
A spokeswoman for Uber told CNBC that the company has the best intentions to welcome a safe and respectful experience for all application users. Maintaining clear community guidelines and a nondiscrimination policy for riders and drivers, in addition to many safety features, are the primary focal points to improve the application experience.
Unfortunately, Uber is not the only application to face criticism for its deficiency in trans-friendly features. Both Tinder and Facebook have made updates to incorporate more inclusivity into their designs. Now, they offer more identity and pronoun options.
Delaware County LGBTQ Discrimination Lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. Assist Employees Dealing with Gender Discrimination
If you or a loved one has been the recipient of discriminatory treatment in the workplace due to your sexual orientation or gender identity, it is important to contact an experienced Delaware County LGBTQ discrimination lawyer at The Gold Law Firm P.C. We will fight to protect your rights and obtain you the justice you deserve. For a free consultation contact us online or call us today at 215-569-1999. Located in Philadelphia, we serve clients from the surrounding areas, including Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, and Montgomery County.
