Comment 15 was removed (for profanity, I guess), but the poster made this point: the actions of the cabbies in this story are similar to those of pharmacists who refuse to dispense birth control pills on religious grouds. IMHO, an independent cabbie can decline whatever fare he chooses, as an independent pharmacist can refuse to sell whatever drugs he chooses. If either is working for someone else, he needs to follow his employer's policy or risk being canned.
Well, comment 15 has reappeared.
The real issue in Illinois was Executive Tyranny. The real issue with the cab drivers might well be something else (I suggested DUI, but maybe somebody got busted for "unlawful transport" and that spooked all his friends).
Remember Dr. Freud's once telling the lady "Sometimes madame, a cigar is just a cigar." This problem affecting a single place sounds like it might have a specific cause having nothing whatsoever to do with religion.
It was still posted as of Minute 51!!
"Comment 15 was removed (for profanity, I guess), but the poster made this point: the actions of the cabbies in this story are similar to those of pharmacists who refuse to dispense birth control pills on religious grouds. IMHO, an independent cabbie can decline whatever fare he chooses, as an independent pharmacist can refuse to sell whatever drugs he chooses. If either is working for someone else, he needs to follow his employer's policy or risk being canned."
Sorry, in every state I know providing cab service is a privilege, not a right, and can only be done legally pursuant to a certificate of public convenience or similar license, a condition of which is that the cabbie must operate as a common carrier (like the phone company or an airline) and carry all passengers without unreasonable discrimination.
Don't put up with this crap. If some muslim does this to you, report his ass to the relevant authority--either the state PUC or the municipal taxi or livery commission.