Julie Lane and a group of protestors experienced hostility following a demonstration at a National Women’s Soccer League game in Portland. Lane, along with others, wore XX-XY Athletics shirts and displayed a “Save Women’s Sports” sign. Their actions prompted both verbal and physical pushback from other spectators, leading to their removal by Providence Park security.
After the incident, Lane and three other women sought a Lyft ride to their hotel. The driver, recognizing them, asked if they were the women from the news. One woman, Linda Serbu, responded affirmatively, anticipating a positive exchange. However, the driver stopped and informed them he could cancel the ride at his discretion, requesting they exit the vehicle.
Most of the women were over 50, with one using a walker. Lane refused to leave, reasoning that she had paid for the ride and felt unsafe being left in a dark area of Portland. The driver then called the police intending to charge them with trespassing. However, the group departed before authorities arrived, finding an alternative Uber ride.
Lane contacted Lyft support, learning the driver would face disciplinary action. Yet, she discovered her account was deactivated the following morning. A Lyft spokesperson commented that safety and respect are paramount, and the incident was under continued review.
The driver’s actions potentially violated Portland regulations, which prohibit rideshare drivers from refusing passengers of proper demeanor post-ride acceptance. Despite this, the driver expressed no regret, describing the protestors as “anti-trans agitators” in a Reddit post and urging enhanced security measures for LGBTQ+ individuals at the stadium.
Serbu pointed out the irony, noting that two lesbians and two bisexual women were among those targeted. The group left Portland with lingering dissent from Thorns fans after the incident.
Matt Calkins, a columnist focusing on sports and culture dynamics, shared details of the controversy. He initially worked with Seattle Times before joining OutKick and Fox News.