Server receives checkbook

Guillermo Ortiz, a server at Planet Hollywood in Los Angeles International Airport, was shocked after discovering a hateful note left by a couple he had just served. Believing everything had gone smoothly, Ortiz was disheartened when he opened the checkbook expecting a tip, only to find a handwritten message that read, “No tip for illegal. Go back to Mexico.” Ortiz, who is Puerto Rican and not Mexican, said the note made him feel terrible, especially since the couple had also removed the optional 18.5% gratuity from their bill.

Ortiz believes the pair judged him based on his appearance, assuming his ethnicity and legal status. He noted this was the first time in his serving career, since 2014, that something like this had happened. The customers had already left and paid in cash, making it difficult to identify them. Ortiz pointed to the current political climate, particularly under President Trump, as a reason people feel emboldened to express such sentiments. Despite the experience and the upcoming closure of his restaurant, which will leave him jobless, Ortiz remains proud of his work and dedication to supporting his family.