Former NFL Player Allegedly Called Racial Slur, Identified As 'Black Guy' On Receipt At Madison's Pub
MOUNT CLEMEMS (WWJ) - A former NFL player says he was the target of racism while out celebrating Saint Patrick's Day at a Macomb County bar.
Quentin Hines, a 2008 Mount Clemens High School graduate and former running back for the New England Patriots, was just trying to grab a bite to eat at Madison's Pub, on Walnut Street in Mount Clemens, on Thursday when an employee allegedly hurled a racist slur his way.
Hines, who has lived in the city for years, told reporters he was going to order another drink at the bar, which was busy with St. Paddy's Day revelers, when the bartender allegedly told him to "Just pay your tab, n*****."
When Hines asked to speak to a manager, the bartender allegedly told him that he was the manager. Hines said he didn't want to cause a scene, so he quietly paid his bill and left.
"I had no conflict with the guy," Hines told The Macomb Daily. "I don't know what could have prompted that. I didn't do anything wrong. I just wanted to go out and have a good time. A lady standing next to me went crazy on the bartender. She was really upset about it."
But it didn't stop there -- when Hines got into his car and looked at his receipt, he was stunned again. The person waiting on the 25-year-old had identified him as "black guy," and it was printed on the receipt.
Following the incident, Hines took his plight to Facebook, saying he's lived in the city for years and wanted to share the story because he loves the community. The post has since been removed.
The restaurant has issued the following statement:
In response to Mr. Hines posting, Madison's Pub would like our customers and Mr. Hines to know that we will immediately investigate this matter and take whatever corrective action is necessary.
Madison's Pub has enjoyed serving the Mt. Clemens Community for the last (18) years. We look forward to continuing a good relationship with all our current and future customers.
Reports say the bartender has denied the allegations.
Hines, a Super Bowl champion, said he's never been the victim of a racial slur before.
"I can't believe they are labeling people by their race," he told the newspaper. "Racism is alive and well. No matter how we deny it, it still exits. ... I hope this doesn't happen to anyone else."
