Do you ever experience or see racism on public transport?

Question

Im shocked to see in my area (slough) that each time i board a bus, i always see such attitude from the bus drives to ethnic minorities whether it be someone simply asking how much a ticket is or to where they are positioned on the bus, yet it doesn't happen to others or myself.

Its horrible to see because it happens to those who aren't the sort to say something back...does this happen to anyone else? And does it not bother you?

Answer 1

No, never experienced it.

I will say though, that people such as bus drivers, don't just choose to pick on certain minorites.

They are responding to their experience of these minorities while they have been on the buses.

Yes, it isn't fair for then to pick on individuals for something other people of the same minority has done - but everyone does it - even you picking on ALL bus drivers, even though not every single busdriver would do it.

I know a few busdrivers and they get gangs of minorites coming on the bus and being aggressive, insulting, causing mess, spitting, being loud... Busdrivers don't just work 9-5... They are working into the late hours.

I'm not excusing them, but i can certainly understand their response and don't really think that you are in a position to judge - sitting from the comfort of your seat for a limited amount of time.

Answer 2

Yeah in Chicago I've noticed passengers clutching their bags a bit tighter, or bringing their kids closer when someone that is a minority passes by.  Some people on public transport can look pretty rough but it seems to happen more often with people of a different ethnic background.  It does bother me.  People are people.  Crazy comes in all colors, it is not exclusive to minorities.

Answer 3

I never noticed it, then again I usually have my Ipod on and keep to myself, I'll take a closer look next time.

Gonzo: Ever heard of global warming? Some of us can afford cars but refuse to do so because we a. don't like getting stuck in traffic and b. care about the environment!

Answer 4

I've witnessed some of it on UK buses although it's not smth that happens all the time.  It is awful but the person who's being treated wrong should progress in every aspect so that they no longer are the sort who won't say anything back.

Answer 5

I'm white and was in a part of London on business and  was the only white person at the bus stop and on the bus driven by a non white. The driver was as polite as you ever get on public transport to others but was down right unhelpful to me. Racist I don't know but it sure felt like it.

Answer 6

My bet is that it is in your head. I think the bus drivers treat everyone pretty much the same.

Answer 7

yes

Answer 8

never

Answer 9

Hard to say since you don't say in what part of the world you live in. At least I haven't noticed such attitude in Finland, England (!) or Greece.

Answer 10

I think they should have "whites only"buses. like what they used to have in South Africa.  Don't you agree ?

Answer 11

I have seen and been the recipient of racial issues on buses and trains here in the city. Got threatened with a razor blade for change even. It doesn't happen that often, and most people of any race are friendly enough, but the times I have experienced it I just want to ask them why. This isn't the 1950s anymore.

Answer 12

It is more than likely a neighborhood thing,rather than a race thing.

When I drove there were certain neighborhoods where people were pretty ignorant,and tried my patience.

But most of them were white.

Answer 13

To me anyone who rides the bus is equal to the person next to them.. None of you can afford a car! you're all the same!

The bus driver is mean cuz he needs a better job.

Answer 14

yes there is a lot of racial involvment but not only on buses!eg the supermarket the park the hospital even! i think people should treat each other equally the world would be a much better place!