Server at LAX Receives Racist Note Instead of Tip
A disturbing incident occurred at the Planet Hollywood restaurant located in the Tom Bradley International Terminal of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), where server Guillermo Ortiz found a hateful message scrawled on a customer’s receipt.
Incident Details
The incident took place on March 21, shortly before Ortiz concluded his shift. After serving a couple, he discovered a handwritten note at the top of their receipt that read, “No tip for illegal. Go back to Mexico.” Ortiz, who identifies as Puerto Rican, expressed regret over the comment, noting that his wife is Mexican, and stating, “There’s no right to treat people like that.”
Customer Interactions
Ortiz believed the dining experience with the couple was satisfactory until he presented their check. He observed a shift in their demeanor that suggested something was amiss. While their bill included an automatic gratuity of 18.5%, customers had the option to adjust or remove the tip if they wished.
Repercussions and Insights
Upon reading the note, Ortiz, who has worked in the service industry since 2014, was taken aback as this was his first encounter with such blatant racism. The couple had already departed, and since they paid in cash, Ortiz was unable to trace their identity. Reflecting on the incident, he stated, “Probably ’cause they saw me, they know I’m Hispanic, they thought I’m Mexican or illegal or I don’t know what they’re thinking.”
Cultural Context
Ortiz suggested that the political climate surrounding immigration, particularly under the current administration, may contribute to such hostile behaviors. “This is happening because of what’s happening with President Trump right now,” he remarked, linking the incident to broader societal issues with discrimination.
Business Impact
Despite this negative experience, Ortiz affirmed his dedication to his profession, saying, “I’m proud of what I do. I’m a server; that’s the way I support my kids, that’s the way I support my family.” He reported the incident to management, and corporate is currently reviewing the matter.
Conclusion
As of now, Ortiz faces a challenging situation, as his workplace is set to close permanently this Saturday, which adds an additional layer of uncertainty to his employment status.
