Waitress receives $10,000 after going viral about racial slur
Things are looking up for a Tennessee waitress who received a racial slur instead of a tip on the job.
Toni Jenkins works at Red Lobster in Cool Springs. A few weeks ago, someone wrote the N-word on a receipt at her table.
Instead of sweeping the incident under the rug, Jenkins went public with the matter.
Her decision brought criticism. Some suspected she faked it, especially when the customer – through his attorney – denied writing the slur. In a written message to Channel 4 News, the customer said, “I do not approve of the use of that type of talk, not now or ever.” When the story went viral, a man in California took action and posted the details on the website YouCaring.com. People donated to the fund called “Tips for Toni.” And late last week, Jenkins received a check for more than $10,000.
Jenkins said the first thought that came to her was, “God just bought my car.” So she paid back a few school loans and got her one.
Red Lobster investigated the incident and suspended Jenkins for a few days. The restaurant has a policy for employees not to post pictures on the internet. Jenkins violated that policy by posting the receipt on her Facebook page.
Jenkins told KLTV 7 that she will continue to work at the establishment.
It’s moments like this that remind us that there are still good people in the world.
Kudos to Toni Jenkins for speaking up for herself!
Thoughts on the reward?
Did the restaurant behave appropriately?
Sound off below!