Uber drivers plan protest in Philly, six other cities

Some Uber drivers in Philly may strike for half a day next month to protest what they say are poor working conditions and low pay.

Philly drivers are expected to join six other cities, including LA and D.C. in the shutdown, which is planned for May 8, when drivers will turn off the app for 12 hours, according to a report from the BBC.

The Philadelphia Drivers’ Union has clarified that they’re not asking any drivers to turn off the Uber app, though they recognize that some drivers may choose to join in the national strike anyway.

Protestors are arguing for benefits, higher wages, better policy on tips and fare share, and more recognition, the news site reported. The protest will coincide with Uber’s first day trading on the stock market, causing drivers to worry that the company’s initial public offering will result in wage cuts.

It follows a similar strike held by L.A. Uber drivers last month, who shut off the app for 25 hours and protested outside the rideshare company’s offices. That demonstration was organized by Rideshare Drivers United to oppose the company’s recent wage restructuring, which reduced per-mile rates for LA Uber drivers by 25 percent.

It’s unclear how many riders from Philly will join in the shutdown, but they’ll be accompanied by riders in Chicago, San Francisco, San Diego and Minneapolis, along with LA and D.C.

Clarification: This story has been amended to clarify that the Philadelphia Drivers’ Union is not asking any drivers to turn off their Uber apps or join in a strike.