A heated discussion has erupted across social media platforms following Uber’s announcement of a new feature trial that some critics argue could be a potential ‘slippery slope.’
Uber is focused on enhancing the safety and comfort of its female users, aiming to improve their experience on the platform.
In a statement released on July 23, Uber introduced a trial program named Women Preferences. This initiative is tailored to give female riders and drivers more choices and confidence while using Uber.
This new feature will let female passengers choose female drivers and fellow female passengers, and the trial will take place in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Detroit.
The company stated: “Across the US, women riders and drivers have told us they want the option to be matched with other women on trips. We’ve heard them—and now we’re introducing new ways to give them even more control over how they ride and drive.”
For women who prefer female drivers, the option to select ‘Women Drivers’ will be available when requesting a ride. If the wait time is excessive, they have the flexibility to choose a faster option.
On the driver’s side, Uber notes that ‘women drivers will soon have the option to request trips with women riders, including during peak earning hours like evenings.’
They may also opt to receive trip requests from all riders if they wish.
While some support Uber’s initiative, others on social media have expressed skepticism.
One Reddit user remarked: “On one hand, I understand where the policy is coming from. On the other hand, this seems like a slippery slope and might cause more problems than not.”
The user continued: “We allow women to say they don’t feel comfortable with male drivers and select female only, but would that work in any other context with any other demographic? What if someone said ‘white drivers only’? That would be considered abjectly racist. Because it is.”
Another user questioned: “Not trying to start anything but curious how it will apply to those who identify differently.”
Conversely, another individual supportive of Uber’s focus on women’s safety shared: “I have seen a ton of anecdotes people have been sharing as both riders and drivers, all of which report horror stories of absolute creepos trying to seduce the women in both positions.”
They added: “I have no idea if this is the right solution, but it seems reasonable to say that it is indeed a problem needing a solution.”
In agreement, another person commented: “I have had poor experiences with creepy cab drivers. None of those poor experiences were with women drivers. This is a much welcomed feature for me.”
What are your thoughts? Would you consider using this feature if it were available in your city?
UNILAD has reached out to Uber for further comment.