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Cinnabon Fires Wisconsin Worker After Viral Video Shows Racist Harassment of Somali Couple

The episode is being discussed in the context of rising anti‑Somali rhetoric nationwide.

Overview

  • The incident at a Bay Park Square kiosk in Ashwaubenon was recorded as a worker mocked a woman’s hijab, used the N-word, declared “I am racist,” and made obscene gestures.
  • Cinnabon said the independently owned franchise terminated the worker immediately and called the behavior unacceptable and not reflective of the brand’s values.
  • The customer who posted the video said she began recording after asking for more caramel on a cinnamon roll and being insulted over her hijab; the pair are described in fundraisers as a Black Somali Muslim couple.
  • Online reaction produced competing fundraisers for the couple and for the fired employee, with one campaign for the worker surpassing $100,000 on GiveSendGo, according to news reports.
  • Social media and some outlets named the worker, but Cinnabon has not confirmed that identity, and no criminal charges have been reported as of Dec. 8.