A Taxi for Everyone

This compelling biography tells the story of Roy Velásquez and how he built a community fighting against segregation and discrimination in Austin, Texas, by starting a thriving taxi company for those not being served by the city's institutions.

Roy Velásquez was the son of Mexican immigrants, living in Austin, Texas, at the height of segregation. Roy knew the hardships faced by people of color because of the insurmountable policies put into place. What was anyone to do? Even just simple acts can go a long way. But Roy went further than that . . .

He borrowed five dollars from a friend, purchased a taxi permit and a tank of gas, and transported people of color wherever they needed to go since they weren't allowed in taxis, and the streetcar line ended before the segregated part of Austin.

Before long, one lone taxi became a fleet. Roy's Taxi Service was in business for roughly seventy-five years as Austin grew into a community, sharing music, food, and love. Roy's story is a reminder that inclusion is strength and that change can happen through small acts of community.