http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2017/03/17/lesbian-couple-allegedly-rejected-by-taxi-driver-because-they-were-holding-hands/A lesbian couple who were refused a taxi said they were “made to feel like second-class citizens because of our love”.
The pair, who live in Worcester in the west Midlands, suffered what a local government official called “a hate crime” on a high street in the centre of the city after a night out.
According to the Worcester News, the women – who have chosen to go by pseudonyms Emma and Sarah – hailed a taxi, only for the driver to refuse their custom.
The driver, who authorities have said may be banned, then directed them to another taxi before immediately taking a different passenger.
Sarah was shocked at the rejection, saying that she regretted not voicing her disgust with the driver’s actions at the time.
“The more I think about it, the more angry I become,” she said.
“All we were doing was holding hands at the end of a good night in town, all we wanted to do was get home safely.
“By denying us the right to use his taxi, he denied us our dignity and could have put us at risk.
Her partner Emma said “the hurt was real,” and called on local authorities to ensure that no other Worcester citizens have to feel discriminated against because of their sexuality.
“Sarah and I love each other – why should we be made to feel like second-class citizens because of our love?”
It was simple, she said. “Respect our love and don’t hate us because of who we love.”
Login
Register
FAQ
