Rapper Sues Lyft Over Alleged Discrimination
A Michigan rapper is suing Lyft after a driver allegedly refused to pick her up, claiming she was too heavy for his car. Dajua Blanding, 36, who performs as Dank Demoss, recorded the incident on video earlier this month, capturing a tense exchange with the driver.
The Argument with the Driver
In the video, Blanding insists she can fit in the car, but the driver disagrees. “I can fit in this car,” she says. The driver responds, “Believe me, you can’t.” He eventually cancels the ride, assuring her she wouldn’t be charged. However, Blanding later filed a lawsuit, claiming the experience left her feeling humiliated and discriminated against.
The Backlash
After posting the video to Instagram, many viewers sided with the driver, suggesting Blanding should have requested a larger vehicle like a Lyft XL. One commenter wrote, “It’s against the law to overload a car,” adding that the driver was polite and explained his reasoning.
Despite this, Blanding stood by her claims. In her post, she accused Lyft of mistreating plus-sized riders: “Lyft, what do you have to say about this driver who discriminated against me?” she wrote. “I feel like you all treat big people like s***.”
The Lawsuit Details
Blanding alleges the driver, in a Mercedes-Benz sedan, locked the doors and tried to leave when he saw her. She claims he said she was too large for the backseat and even suggested her weight could damage his tires.
Blanding’s attorneys argue the driver’s actions violated Michigan law, which protects against discrimination based on weight. “It’s illegal and wrong,” said attorney Jonathan Marko, comparing the situation to denying a ride based on race or religion. His colleague, Zach Runyan, emphasized the safety risks of denying transportation based on weight.
Continuing Defiance
Despite criticism, Blanding remained defiant. She shared another Instagram video, humorously addressing the issue: “Me tryna get Lyft to not discriminate against my weight and let me in the car! Would you let me in??”
Blanding has previously shared her struggles with weight, revealing that she weighed over 500 pounds but had recently lost more than 40.
Lyft’s Response
In response to the controversy, Lyft issued a statement condemning all forms of discrimination. “We believe in a community where everyone is treated with equal respect and mutual kindness,” the company said.
As the lawsuit continues, the case highlights important questions about passenger rights, driver discretion, and the balance between safety concerns and discrimination in the gig economy.
