Pressure to make an apology typically results in it being insincere. Reggie’s is not genuinely apologetic for its latest scandal.
On Sept. 10, Reggie’s apologized for its Confederate flag and “show your pride” cups that were used along with what appeared to be a noose hanging in the bar. Reggie’s claims the cups were stored away a while ago when it realized they were offensive to some guests, but were accidentally taken off a top shelf recently by an employee. As for the noose, supposedly it’s usually used to hang a beer barrel, however it was removed because it was bothering the bartender.
How many times can an establishment accidentally display racism? I can’t be the only one calling B.S. on these sorry excuses.
Reggie’s already has a mile-long track record of discriminatory practices from the three years I’ve been in Baton Rouge. In September 2015, I wrote a column calling out the establishment for its discriminatory dress code. Despite its failure to admit a man for wearing earrings, a white t-shirt, long or exposed chains, white tennis shoes or baggy clothing they responded racism won’t end until “‘a select group’ stops placing the race card.”
Let’s not forget the “reggin” stamp which becomes a racial slur when read backwards. It was used until November 2015 when a post of the stamp went viral and the bar began receiving negative press.
It could be easily argued Reggie’s doesn’t want black people in its establishment. Yet, black people can still be found there. When the young black woman tweeted the picture of the confederate flag cup and noose, the first thing I thought was “why was she even there?”
Like the old saying, “Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me”, Reggie’s has consistently showed us its true colors, which were always pretty obvious with the confederate flag hanging in the back of the bar. Black people have to take responsibility by ensuring we are not supporting such businesses — as much as it shouldn’t have to be our responsibility, it is.
If Reggie’s repeatedly shows signs of racism and black people continue to attend, then why would they stop? From its perspective, Reggie’s is winning. The bar is able to express itself while simultaneously collecting our money. We’ve got to stop supporting businesses who blatantly disrespect us time and time again.
Black people shouldn’t be the only ones avoiding the over-hyped bar. All races and ethnicities should be looking to bring their money elsewhere. Supporting this bar is one of the clearest forms of institutional racism.
Reggie’s could be considered convenient to some because it’s down the street from campus and has week-long drink specials. However, standing up for what’s right and staying true to your morals and values comes with sacrifice. Even aside from Reggie’s, if you’re a frequent at an establishment then made aware the policies or an affiliate goes against what you believe in, then stop going. It’s simple: money is power and you’ve got to hit them where it hurts, their wallets. Without money from consumers, businesses cannot operate.
If you’re worried about not having a place to turn up after Saturday night home football games, so what? It’s a sacrifice you’ll have to make. Either find another place to hang out or maybe consider studying for an upcoming test. Your money would be better spent somewhere else anyway.
Hopefully this will be my last Reggie’s column — but, as always, I’ll continue to call out any institutions that promote or exhibit racism, marginalize communities and create uncomfortable spaces for any groups of people.
Clarke Perkins is a 21-year-old political science senior from New Orleans, Louisiana.