Black police officer Joseph Baker experienced discrimination at a local diner. Despite waiting for over 45 minutes, the counter staff refused to serve him, leaving him shocked and determined to return the next day with his badge in full view.
The staff, unaware of Baker’s identity, had previously given him strange looks and refused to serve him the food he wanted. When Baker spoke to the manager about the disrespectful behavior, she accused him of delaying the line and laughed at his complaint. The cook joined in, refusing to serve Baker based on his race. Baker left the restaurant feeling disrespected and unable to reveal his identity as a police officer.
The incident went viral on social media, leading to protests, the suspension of the staff involved, and threats of boycotts or violence. Many black people shared similar experiences of refusal and mockery at the restaurant, resulting in the black community collectively deciding to stop trying to get service there. The diner released an apology but faced immense backlash. Officer Baker handled the situation perfectly by disengaging and not supporting cancel culture or violence. The staff members were eventually fired, and the new management promised to do better. Officer Baker was the first to give the diner another chance and was served properly upon his return.
