Funds Being Collected For Grassroots Organization, Not Going To Cause

(Memphis)— The Memphis Bus Riders Union says, someone has been collecting funds under its name.

Josue Rodriguez has been active with the Memphis Bus Riders Union since it started late last year.  He joined because he wanted a change from what he calls, buses running late, lifts not working on trolleys and drivers who were operating handicap accessible buses, not making things accessible; recalling one day in particular, when a lift wasn’t working.

“He’s all like, you are going to have to wait for the next one because it’s not working.” said Rodriguez.

But that day Rodriguez says, he had enough, he told the driver, ” I will not move from the door.”

The Memphis Bus Riders Union says, people have been out at bus stops collecting money, using stories like, Rodriguez’.

“We want to say unequivocally say, we are not soliciting donations from the public, we are not soliciting anything at terminals or at bus stops.” said Brad Watkins, with the Memphis Bus Riders Union.

There’s no word on how much money has been collected , the union says they’ve never solicited funds, and anything printed for the union has been paid for by individual members.

Watkins says someone using the initiative for a personal, financial gain, is infuriating.

“We are not going to let that distract us. We are going to keep on doing the work this union was formed to do which is make sure the needs of transit dependent people are priorities with MATA.” said Watkins.

“Once we are provided with that equal access, a lot of people will have the freedom to simply go to the store.” expressed Rodriguez.