D.C. Transit Workers Launch Drive vs. Fare Hikes

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 21 — Even though D.C. Metro recently raised bus fares to $1.45, many riders, with drivers looking the other way in solidarity, have decided to “just pay a buck.” They are not only attacking the bosses where it hurts them the most — the pocketbook — they are also displaying a level of class consciousness that should be an inspiration. Any and every instance of workers looking out for other workers is a reason for optimism. This consciousness, and a revolutionary party to organize our class, are crucial ingredients in the recipe for communist revolution.

Now, despite angry protests and testimony against fare increases by workers and students, the transit board here is hiking fares again, to $1.70. These represent the biggest increases in Metro’s history and is part of the bosses’ response to the crisis of capitalism — put the burden on the backs of workers –  a burden borne disproportionately by the mostly black and Latino Metro employees and riders.

As we have seen worldwide, the racism inherent in capitalism has intensified during the economic crisis. Furthermore, disabled workers, victims of capitalism’s disregard for the health and well-being of workers, will face big increases in the cost of their transportation services.  In response, workers are mobilizing to broaden the “Just Pay a Dollar” campaign, with Metro drivers being asked to continue supporting it by accepting the lower fares.

This resistance is a positive sign. Solidarity can be built among workers through such a campaign. But we should have no illusions that such a movement will significantly alter the bosses’ exploitation of workers and riders. Only with a communist revolution could we actually solve the problem: workers would run Metro in the interests of workers so they could get to work easily and make their contribution to society.

Under communism, transit would be free and available, since we would all be working collectively with one another, to create a better world, not help some exploiting boss make profit from our labor. As the “Just Pay a Dollar” campaign grows, we will work to bring this idea to more workers at Metro and in the community!