In an unsettling incident that has sparked widespread attention, a Maryland man is speaking out after a shocking encounter at his local Chick-fil-A. On August 23, Marquise Vanzego, a Black man living in La Plata, Maryland, went to pick up dinner from the drive-thru, only to find that his order was labeled with a racial slur instead of his name.
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The Incident
Marquise Vanzego recalls the moment when he realized something was wrong. After placing his order, he heard an employee call out, “Monkeys,” to identify a to-go order. At first, he thought it must be a mistake—surely it couldn’t be his order. But when the employee confirmed it was the chicken strips, fries, and iced tea/lemonade he had requested, Vanzego felt a wave of shock and disbelief wash over him.
Describing the experience, Vanzego likened the emotional pain to the feeling of grief or a painful breakup. “Your heart has that little sting in it,” he shared, emphasizing the deep hurt and humiliation he felt in that moment.
Seeking Accountability
Vanzego immediately spoke to the on-duty manager, who apologized and offered to refund the order. Later, he discussed the incident with a store manager named Kevin, who was not present at the time but expressed regret over what had occurred. However, Kevin informed Vanzego that the employee responsible would not be terminated, citing the fact that the individual was under 18 years old.
This response left Vanzego and many others dissatisfied. He posted videos of his interactions with the management on social media, where they quickly garnered attention. While some commenters were sympathetic, others questioned whether the incident was a result of miscommunication or a faulty drive-thru intercom. Vanzego clarified that no intercom was involved—he had placed his order directly with a young white male who was taking orders outside.
The Bigger Picture: Why Racism Has No Place in Our Society
This incident is not just about one mistaken order; it’s about the larger issue of racism and the harmful impact it can have on individuals and communities. Racism, in any form, is unacceptable. It dehumanizes people, perpetuates harmful stereotypes, and creates a culture of exclusion and hostility.
In situations like this, it’s crucial to hold individuals accountable for their actions. While the employee in question is young, it’s essential to understand that age does not excuse harmful behavior. Teaching young people the importance of respect, empathy, and the consequences of their actions is vital. This is where parents play a crucial role.
What Parents Can Teach Their Children
Parents are the first educators in a child’s life, and the values they instill will shape how their children view and interact with the world. Here are some essential lessons parents should teach their children to prevent incidents like this from happening:
- Respect for All: Teach children to respect everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background. Emphasize that every person deserves to be treated with dignity and kindness.
- Understanding Diversity: Encourage children to learn about different cultures and perspectives. Understanding diversity fosters empathy and reduces the likelihood of engaging in harmful behavior.
- Consequences of Actions: Make it clear that actions have consequences. Whether it’s a hurtful word or a thoughtless gesture, children should understand that what they do affects others, and they must take responsibility for their behavior.
- The Power of Words: Teach children that words have power. A single word can uplift someone or tear them down. Encourage them to think before they speak and to choose words that build others up, not tear them down.
- Standing Up Against Injustice: Instill the courage to stand up against racism and injustice. Encourage children to speak out when they see wrongs being committed, and to be allies to those who are marginalized.
Final Thoughts
The incident at Chick-fil-A is a sobering reminder that racism is still prevalent in our society, and it’s up to all of us to fight against it. By holding individuals accountable, educating our children, and fostering a culture of respect and understanding, we can work towards a more inclusive and just society.
Marquise Vanzego’s experience is a painful example of how deep-rooted racism can manifest in everyday situations. His decision to speak out is a powerful act of resistance, one that calls attention to the need for greater awareness and change. As we reflect on this incident, let’s commit to being better—to educating ourselves and our children, and to creating a world where everyone is treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
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