DETROIT (DDN) – A Detroit rapper is suing Lyft after alleging that a driver refused to give her a ride due to her weight.
Dajua Blanding, known by her stage name Dank DeMoss, claims she was humiliated. Her attorneys claim the driver violated Michigan’s anti-discrimination rules, which list weight as a protected characteristic.
“I was like, is this happening?” Blanding informed CBS News Detroit. “I was hurt and embarrassed.”
Blanding, a self-described plus-size advocate, captured the entire encounter on her cellphone and shared it on social media. The post has since gone viral, reaching thousands of individuals.
Blanding stated that she uploaded it to bring awareness to an issue she believes is under-discussed.
“I’ve been in that same type of car many times and never had an issue,” according to Blanding. “This was someone who was discriminating against me just because of my weight.”
A Lyft spokeswoman informed CBS News Detroit that they cannot comment on current litigation, but they did provide a written statement:
“Lyft opposes all forms of discrimination; we envision a community in which everyone is treated with equal respect and reciprocal kindness. Our community guidelines and terms of service expressly ban harassment and discrimination.
Blanding stated that she did not experience respect or friendliness from the driver, but she is pleased that her video resonated with other individuals who look like her.
“If I hadn’t stood up, who would?” Blanding stated. “I hope that all 50 states would add weight as a protection for people.”
Reference: Detroit rapper sues Lyft, alleges driver refused ride due to her size
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