Imagine stepping into a taxi, not with the usual trepidation that comes with being a woman traveling alone, but with a sense of relief and empowerment. In Bolivia, a country grappling with one of the highest rates of sexual violence in Latin America, a few remarkable women are turning this vision into reality.
The Birth of a Movement
For Jacqueline Diaz, the turning point came when her 12-year-old daughter narrowly escaped a kidnapping attempt on her way to school. The harrowing incident spurred Diaz to take action. She learned to drive, bought a car, and joined Mujeres al Volante (Women at the Wheel), a groundbreaking taxi service exclusively for women, children, and the elderly.
Founded in 2017 by Gabriela Strauss, Mujeres al Volante was born out of necessity. Strauss, a single mother navigating a divorce and job loss, recognized the urgent need for safe transportation options in a society plagued by reports of women being assaulted and kidnapped by taxi drivers.
“I didn’t want any family to go through that. Out of this came the idea to use my car and work to provide a safe and secure service for people’s loved ones.”
– Gabriela Strauss, Founder of Mujeres al Volante
A Lifeline for Women
Today, Mujeres al Volante employs 38 women and 7 men, the latter primarily assisting passengers with disabilities. The service has become a lifeline for women seeking flexible work opportunities, particularly single mothers and those over 45 who often face age discrimination in the job market.
Strauss’s model has inspired similar initiatives across Bolivia, such as Linea Lila in El Alto and Cumita Móvil in Tarija. These female-led companies offer more than just safe rides; they provide empowerment, independence, and a way out of abusive relationships.
“Sometimes, women don’t want to leave their husband because they say, ‘Who is going to give me money? How will I afford anything?’ So they put up with all the mistreatment at home. Some have escaped and have seen transport as a livelihood.”
– Julia Quispe, Executive Secretary of Linea Lila
Beyond Transportation: Empowerment and Support
In addition to providing safe transportation, these companies offer invaluable support to their drivers and passengers. Linea Lila, for instance, provides driving lessons for women, as well as classes on the psychological effects of abuse, legal advice, and women’s rights.
The impact of these services extends far beyond the individual passengers and drivers. By creating employment opportunities and support systems, they are chipping away at the systemic issues that perpetuate violence against women in Bolivian society.
Driving Towards a Safer Future
As these trailblazing women continue to expand their services, they envision a future where safe transportation is accessible to all. Plans are in the works for more affordable minibus routes and expansion into other regions.
The success of these female-led taxi companies in Bolivia serves as a powerful reminder that change is possible, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. By taking the wheel and driving towards a safer future, these remarkable women are not only transforming travel but also reshaping societal norms and expectations.
“People’s safety and the violation of women’s rights is not specific to Bolivia. All over the world, the most vulnerable sectors of society are women, children and elderly people.”
– Gabriela Strauss
As their movement gains momentum, it’s clear that the impact of these courageous women extends far beyond the streets of Bolivia. They are paving the way for a world where safety, independence, and empowerment are not just aspirations but fundamental rights for all.
