On Wednesday, a passionate group of delivery workers and their advocates gathered in Lower Manhattan to protest Grubhub’s recent decision to terminate the accounts of 50 delivery workers, sparking outrage and demands for reinstatement. The rally, organized by Los Deliveristas Unidos, included app-delivery workers, elected officials, and immigrant rights activists who expressed their discontent outside the corporate headquarters of Wonder, Grubhub’s parent company.
Mamun Hossen, a long-time delivery worker for Grubhub, articulated the group’s sentiments, stating, “I’ve worked hard for Grubhub for years… I do not deserve to be deactivated like this.” Participants emphasized the need for clear communication from Grubhub regarding the sudden account deactivations, which they viewed as unjust and lacking transparency.
Luis Cortes, the director of Los Deliveristas Unidos, criticized Grubhub’s handling of the situation, claiming that the mass deactivations demonstrated a disregard for workers. He mentioned that many of those affected relied exclusively on their delivery jobs for income, leaving them vulnerable and impacting their families’ livelihoods.
In response to the backlash, a Grubhub spokesperson clarified that deactivations are not made lightly and that the accounts in question had either been duplicated or improperly shared. The spokesperson encouraged the affected workers to appeal their deactivation if they believed it was made in error and mentioned efforts to engage with Deliveristas leaders to address concerns.
This incident unfolds against the backdrop of a recent proposal by New York City Mayor Eric Adams aimed at improving safety by restricting e-bike speeds. Mayor Adams has expressed concern over the risks posed by speeding e-bikes to pedestrians and highlighted the need for better regulation.
City Comptroller Brad Lander, who attended the rally, echoed the need for protective measures for workers, stating that the city needs leaders capable of standing up for their rights. He shared his own recent experience with immigration authorities while defending migrants in court, underscoring the interconnected struggles workers face.
The protests not only spotlight the urgent issues surrounding gig economy labor practices but also emphasize the collective power of workers advocating for fair treatment and support. Such organizing efforts demonstrate a commitment to fighting for better working conditions, which can lead to positive changes in the future.