United Taxi Workers of San Diego

Introduction

The United Taxi Workers of San Diego (UTWSD) is a nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(4) civic league, social welfare organization, and local association of employees. It was formed in January 2010 following a taxi drivers' strike in December 2009 in San Diego. The organization is dedicated to improving the working conditions of taxi drivers and raising awareness about issues affecting them.

Mission

UTWSD aims to unify taxicab workers, enhance their working conditions through direct advocacy and empowerment, increase education and civic participation by taxi drivers and their families, and improve professional transportation services for the San Diego community and visitors. The organization envisions a driver-led taxi industry that provides exceptional, efficient, and safe services while fostering a professional working environment free from exploitation, intimidation, and discrimination.

Vision

The vision of UTWSD includes providing strong and representative leadership in a healthy and inclusive taxi industry. They strive for an industry that meets the diverse needs of taxi drivers and their families, promoting a culture of excellence, honesty, integrity, respect, and collaboration.

History and Achievements

UTWSD was established as a response to pressing issues faced by taxi drivers, including high lease prices and harassment by law enforcement and public transportation officials. Since its inception, the organization has led successful campaigns such as the "Lift the Cap" campaign to open up the permitting process both in the city and at the airport, and ending the black market for cabs in San Diego County. They have also been involved in organizing within the East African community to support initiatives like the 2020 Census.

Membership and Demographics

The membership of UTWSD is multi-ethnic, with members from diverse backgrounds, including East Africa (Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea), Iran, Uganda, Mexico, Sudan, Peru, Kenya, and Nigeria. This diversity reflects the organization's commitment to representing the interests of a broad spectrum of taxi workers.

Core Values

UTWSD operates based on several core values:

• Excellence: Dedicated service and professionalism.
• Honesty: Trust and truthfulness.
• Integrity: Ethical and transparent leadership.
• Respect: Understanding and protecting the rights of drivers and partners.
• Collaboration: Cross-cultural solidarity and team spirit.

These values guide the organization's mission to advocate, educate, organize, and empower taxi workers in San Diego.