A Normal Workday Turns into a Horrifying Memory
Guillermo Ortiz, a server at Planet Hollywood in Los Angeles International Airport, had an unforgettable experience on March 21. He was serving a couple like any other. Everything seemed normal—until they left a checkbook behind with a racist note inside.
Ortiz thought it might be a tip, but when he opened it, instead of the usual receipt, he found a handwritten note that shocked him:“No tip for illegal. Go back to Mexico.”
The Impact of a Racist Note in Everyday Life
Ortiz was instantly overwhelmed with shock and hurt. He told KTLA that he is not even Mexican, as the note suggested, but Puerto Rican. However, his wife is Mexican, and he believes that no one deserves to be treated that way because of their nationality or ethnicity.
The couple even removed the automatic 18.5% gratuity from the bill – something customers are allowed to do if they’re unsatisfied with the service. “I’ve been a server since 2014, and this is the first time something like this has happened to me,” Ortiz said.
Since the couple paid in cash and left before the note was discovered, it’s nearly impossible to identify them.
Rising Above the Racist Note with Pride
Despite being insulted, Ortiz remained composed and expressed pride in his work. “I’m proud of what I do,” he said. “I’m a server – that’s how I support my kids, that’s how I support my family.”
Unfortunately, this incident came during an even more difficult time — the Planet Hollywood location he works at is set to close permanently on Saturday, leaving him without a job. It’s been a tough week for Ortiz, but he refuses to let this experience crush his spirit. “No one has the right to treat others that way just because of their background or ethnicity,” Ortiz affirmed.