KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Instead of a tip, one server at a Kalamazoo restaurant received a hate-filled note at the bottom of their receipt, ending with a nod to President-elect Donald Trump.
It happened Friday at the TGI Fridays on W. Main St. Zeroes are written into the tip and total lines, and below that, a racial and homophobic epithet, ending with “#PresidentTRUMP.” Their corporate office issued the following statement:
“Now is the time for everyone to come together. We’re focused on making sure every guest and team member feels cared for, valued and respected. We’ve reached out to the team member and the restaurant is aware of this situation.”
The Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Department plans to investigate to determine whether a crime was committed.
“Freedom of speech always trumps ugly remarks,” Undersheriff Matyas said.
This incident is the latest since the election ended, with reports across the country of people saying they’re being harassed based on their race, sex, or sexual orientation. In Traverse City this weekend, an off-duty officer was suspended after being seen driving a pickup truck bearing a Confederate flag around a group of people protesting the new president.
In Grand Rapids Saturday night, a second night of protests were held downtown, with some attendees saying that despite voting, they don’t believe their voices were heard at the polls.
