No More Delays on Equality: The MTA Must Serve All New Yorkers.

On 10/16/2025 at approximately 7:16 PM, I experienced a deeply troubling and discriminatory incident involving an MTA bus operator on the Q80 route. The incident took place at the Kew Gardens Rd / 80th Rd bus stop, near the 24 Hour Fitness and the E Train station. After completing an eight-hour work shift and going to the gym, I ran toward the bus to avoid missing it. I arrived at the stop before the bus pulled away, yet the driver deliberately refused to open the doors and allow me—and other paying passengers—to board, leaving us standing in the cold.

To prevent the bus from leaving unfairly, I stood in front of it until a supervisor arrived about 15 minutes later. When I explained what happened, the supervisor spoke with the driver and then, to my disbelief, asked me if I intended to harm the driver. That question was both offensive and inappropriate, implying something about me that was completely unwarranted.

After the supervisor instructed the driver to let us board, the driver responded by saying, “You know how these people are.” This statement was blatantly racist, unprofessional, and unacceptable. It was clear that my treatment was based on the color of my skin. Had I been of another race or ethnicity—particularly White or Hispanic—I strongly believe the situation would have been handled differently.

I can’t help but wonder how many other Black riders this driver has tried to leave behind or left standing in the cold simply because of who they are. This kind of behavior is not only discriminatory—it’s dangerous and dehumanizing.

The actions of this driver reflect a serious lack of professionalism, respect, and accountability. No rider should ever be subjected to racial discrimination while using public transportation. The MTA must take immediate action to investigate this matter and hold the driver accountable.

Incidents like this destroy trust and dignity within the communities the MTA serves. Riders deserve courtesy, fairness, and equality—not prejudice or humiliation. It is time for the MTA to ensure that all employees represent the values of integrity, inclusion, and respect that every New Yorker deserves.