Calls for Winnipeg to pass bylaw that would penalize taxi drivers for harassing customers

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs is hoping the City of Winnipeg goes forward with a bylaw that would penalize taxi drivers for harassing their customers.

The First Nations Family Advocate Office (FNFAO) of the AMC says the bylaw would help address the “ongoing concerns” for First Nations women who are subject to harassment or discrimination when taking a taxi in Winnipeg.

The city delayed the passing of the bylaw earlier this week.

“First Nations citizens deserve a mechanism that ensures their safety while utilizing taxi services,” said Cora Morgan of the FNFAO. “This by-law is an opportunity to ensure accountability with taxi drivers who have acted inappropriately with their customers, and an avenue to seek justice should they receive poor treatment.

READ: Winnipeggers calling for reworked system as viral cab incident not isolated

“This could also serve as a preventative legislation which encourages better behaviour for drivers who unfortunately have yet to face significant consequences for their deplorable actions against vulnerable First Nations women and girls.”

The FNFAO says it is fully supportive of a bylaw that would make Winnipeg taxis a safe space for their customers.

---

WATCH:

• Winnipeg’s taxi industry calling for immediate change
• More than 300 taxi-sector complaints filed to City of Winnipeg

---

In a release, the advocacy office pointed to an incident last year that could have been avoided if a bylaw were in place to hold drivers accountable.

The FNFAO says a young First Nations woman was attacked by a Winnipeg taxi driver in 2021.

“Taxi drivers and their respective companies must be held to a higher standard of care in their profession due to the nature of their work, and how they engage with the public,” said Morgan.

“Many First Nations citizens opt for alternatives for their transportation needs due to fear of potential harassment or being denied service.”