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Cinnabon Fires Wisconsin Worker After Video Shows Racist Tirade at Somali Couple

A viral clip triggered a rush of online fundraising, underscoring rising concerns about harassment of Somali communities.

Overview

  • The incident occurred at the Bay Park Square mall in Ashwaubenon, where the employee mocked a woman’s hijab, used the N-word, declared “I am racist,” and made obscene gestures.
  • Cinnabon said the independently owned franchise “immediately terminated” the worker, stressing the behavior does not reflect the brand’s values or expectations for guests and staff.
  • The video drew millions of views across platforms, with several outlets reporting totals approaching 3 million as the clip spread on TikTok, X, Facebook and more.
  • Competing fundraisers followed: a GiveSendGo for the fired employee climbed rapidly — reaching tens of thousands and reported by NBC as nearly $100,000 — while a GoFundMe supports the Somali couple.
  • No criminal charges have been announced, as community leaders and news outlets link the episode to escalating anti‑Somali rhetoric and recent federal enforcement activity in the Upper Midwest.