SFDocFest highlights struggling taxi drivers in Taken For A Ride

San Francisco cab driver Marcelo Fonseca's documentary "Taken For A Ride" premieres this Sunday at the Vogue Theater, shedding light on the struggles of taxi drivers in the city. Fonseca received his medallion in 2009, just before the SFMTA implemented a new sales program that left drivers burdened with debts from overvalued medallions. The introduction of Uber and Lyft shortly thereafter severely impacted the taxi industry, pushing many drivers into financial distress. Fonseca's film features fellow cab drivers who share their experiences and call for the SFMTA to buy back the medallions. The SFMTA previously generated $60 million from these sales but now faces a projected $300 million budget deficit by 2026.

Fonseca, who has been a cab driver for over three decades, hopes to use the documentary to restore dignity to his profession. He believes the film can attract attention from city officials regarding the ongoing crisis. His commitment to the industry reflects a desire to leave with dignity rather than financial loss.