Detroit rapper Dank Demoss, born Dajua Blanding, has filed a lawsuit against ride-share company Lyft, accusing the service of weight discrimination after a driver refused to pick her up and canceled her ride.
The self-proclaimed “plus-size rapper” alleged in her lawsuit that the driver’s actions amounted to illegal discrimination based on her weight.
She shared video footage of the encounter, which shows her attempting to enter the vehicle. In the clip, the driver explains that he cannot provide the ride due to the size of his car and concerns about the wear and tear on his tires. He apologized for the inconvenience and suggested that she order a larger vehicle next time.
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Speaking to FOX 2 Detroit, Demoss expressed her hurt over the incident, particularly the driver’s comments about his tires. “I just want them to know, like, it really hurt my feelings,” she told reporter Jessica Dupnack, adding that she has successfully ridden in smaller vehicles before.
Demoss’ attorneys, Jon Marko and Zach Runyan, argue that weight is a legally protected characteristic in Michigan under anti-discrimination laws. “It’s no different than a driver pulling up and saying, ‘I don’t want to have Black people in my car, I don’t want to have Christians in my car, or Muslims,’” Marko stated. “Under the law, it’s the same.”
Lyft addressed the incident in a statement, reiterating the company’s commitment to fighting discrimination.
“Lyft unequivocally condemns all forms of discrimination—we believe in a community where everyone is treated with equal respect and mutual kindness. Our community guidelines and terms of service explicitly prohibit harassment or discrimination,” the statement read.
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