“It’s About Time Someone Was Held Accountable”: Teenagers Write “Black” on Gratuity Line and Server Takes a Stand

A group of teenagers recently found themselves in hot water after they wrote “black” on the gratuity line instead of tipping. Their server was indeed Black – but the guilty teen said he was too.

It Went Viral on TikTok

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The server is known on TikTok as “being.amira.” In the video, she confronted the teens outside the restaurant and asked for clarification about the puzzling message left behind. The teen in question initially claimed to be unaware of the implication behind the word and its racial connotations. As Amira probed further, his confusion persisted and he claimed he didn’t know why he’d written it.

The Phenomenon of Colorism

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The teen went on to say that he himself is Black and that he wrote the word in reference to that. Amira didn’t show his face in the video – but she did show his lower body and it’s clear his skin is light. Even if the teenager identifies as Black, his light skin tone indicates that he might not personally experience the same level of discrimination and systemic disadvantages as someone with darker skin, like Amira. This is known as “colorism.” Moreover, the teen claimed his friend – who was undoubtedly White – told him to write the racist message

The Teen Offered a Tip

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The teen, seemingly anxious, attempted to rectify the situation by offering a tip. Amira declined the gesture and walked away, evidently satisfied with the confrontation’s resolution. In a later video, she clarified her stance on not exposing the identities of the teenagers involved and emphasized that confronting them directly was what they deserved. The server asserted that she did not accept money from the teens and clarified that the cash she held in the video was the check they left behind.

The Issue of Tipping Culture

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The incident shed light on the financial struggles faced by the server, who earns $2.13 an hour, and the controversial issue of tipping culture – an aspect of the service industry that has been widely criticized. Unlike many other countries, where servers are paid a standard minimum wage, the US tipping culture perpetuates a system where servers’ livelihoods can be significantly impacted by factors beyond their control. 

The Audience Reaction

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The video quickly went viral and everyone shared their thoughts. Viewers largely expressed support for the server’s approach to handling the situation and the incident resonated with many who understood the pain that such racially insensitive actions can cause. 

The Majority Were Supportive

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The majority of commenters were highly supportive. “Props to you for confronting them. I’m sorry that you have to fight for your existence. You are very strong,” one wrote. “Kudos to the server for holding her ground. It’s time we stop tolerating casual racism. These teenagers need to learn accountability,” another said.

The Importance of Accountability

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A fair few commenters discussed the importance of accountability. “It’s about time someone was held accountable. His demeanor changed real quick,” one wrote. “There’s not enough accountability in the world. Saying that, I’m glad you didn’t show their faces. They’re kids, after all,” another said.

Some Were Proud of the TikToker

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A fair few commenters wrote that they were proud of Amira for the way she confidently dealt with the situation. “I am so sorry this happened but I’m so proud of you for confronting them. What a bunch of entitled kids,” one said. “Girl, this video made me proud. Your confidence is stunning,” another added.

Others Found It Satisfying

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Some commenters found satisfaction in watching Amira stand up for herself. “It’s so satisfying to see someone actually stand up for themselves instead of just ranting about it,” one individual wrote. “People can deal with racism [and] bigotry however they deem appropriate. If they want to rant about it, they can. If they want to confront, they can,” another hit back.

Standing Up to Racism

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Some commenters wished for more people like Amira in the world. “It’s so disheartening to see ignorant behavior like that and I’ve gotta hand it to her for the way she handled it. We need more people like her who aren’t afraid to stand up against discrimination,” one person wrote. “Unfortunately, standing up to racism can cost Black people their lives. That’s why some are afraid,” another replied.

The Issue of Colorism

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Some commenters discussed the issue of colorism. “What a sad world we live in. And for a Black kid to treat you like that? He should know better. Colorism is real,” one individual wrote. “This really highlights how deeply ingrained colorism is. Heartbreaking to see a light-skinned kid basically bullying a darker-skinned woman.”

Others Begged Her to Show the Kids’ Faces

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Some commenters, seemingly forgetting that the kids in question are minors, begged Amira to show the faces of everyone involved. “You really should show their faces. They deserve it,” one wrote. “They’re literally minors. She’s right to keep their identities hidden,” another hit back.”

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