Uber and Hip Hop: A Contradiction Between Culture and Commerce

The TMV is reacting "stunned and appalled" to the patronage—it is facing a nationwide investigation in which authorities intervene against approximately 1,700 illegal Uber vehicles. Customs and the public prosecutor's office are investigating illegal employment, tax evasion, and social dumping. At the same time, politicians are working on legal minimum tariffs to strengthen the market position of taxi and rental car businesses.

Statesman and Sponsorship: A Bad Mix

But according to the association, the official support for an event sponsored by Uber sends exactly the wrong signal. Uber can cold-bloodedly buy its way into the capital with its resources from California. The halo effect for the city is thereby damaged: "It greatly harms the image of the federal capital to increasingly become a purchased Uber city."

Values in Contradiction

The association points to the significant discrepancy between the sponsorship and the values upheld on the event organizer's website, such as integrity, trust, and ethical behavior. It states: "Shared values and a shared vision," values that, according to TMV, Uber pursued in stark contradiction to fair competition and socially responsible business practices. Those who want to do the "right" thing are obligated here – and indeed with real actions.

TMV therefore sees only two ways: The mayor must either return his patronage – or ensure that Uber withdraws as a sponsor. Both options would send a clear signal that Berlin is not for sale and defends the principles of the social market economy.