Former Miss Slovakia Alleges Anti-Jewish Discrimination by Uber Driver in Toronto
TORONTO, Ontario — Miriam Mattova, a former Miss Slovakia and Canadian model, has come forward with allegations of anti-Jewish discrimination after an Uber driver reportedly forced her out of a vehicle at a busy Toronto intersection. The incident, which occurred on November 30, has sparked calls for accountability and a broader conversation about discrimination in ride-sharing services.
Mattova recounted to Fox News Digital that she was on a FaceTime call discussing a recent mission trip to Israel when the female driver abruptly slammed on the brakes and demanded she exit the car. “I immediately ended my call and asked why they were stopping,” Mattova said. “They told me that they felt uncomfortable with me in the car.” When pressed for an explanation, the driver allegedly stated, “They don’t drive Jewish people.”
The incident took place on Dundas Street, one of Toronto’s busiest thoroughfares. Mattova, 33, who holds Canadian citizenship, emphasized that her intention in speaking out is not to play the victim but to confront hate and discrimination wherever it arises. “Canada has always been a place I believed in,” she said. “Welcoming, diverse, respectful. We all share responsibility to ensure it stays that way.”
Following the event, both Mattova and the friend who booked the Uber filed detailed complaints with the company. Uber responded by confirming that it has reached out to both parties and is conducting a thorough review. A spokesperson stated, “Discrimination has no place on our platform, and we take concerns like this very seriously. Appropriate action has been taken.”
Mattova’s legal counsel, Howard Levitt, outlined the demands being made: an official apology, termination of the driver’s contract, a donation to an Israeli charity of Mattova’s choosing, and mandatory anti-discrimination training for the driver. The lawyer underscored the importance of consequences in combating hate.
This incident echoes a disturbing rise in anti-Semitic acts reported across North America. The Anti-Defamation League has documented an increase in hate crimes targeting Jewish communities, underscoring the urgency of addressing such discrimination.
Uber, as a major player in the ride-sharing industry, has policies prohibiting discrimination on the basis of religion, race, ethnicity, and other protected characteristics. The company’s commitment to these policies aligns with broader efforts by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Ontario Human Rights Commission to ensure safe and equitable treatment for all passengers.
Mattova’s case has drawn attention from civil rights advocates and the public alike, highlighting the challenges faced by minority communities in everyday interactions. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of corporate oversight in preventing discriminatory behavior among contractors.
As investigations continue, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent need to confront intolerance and uphold the values of respect and inclusion in all sectors of society.
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