NAACP Calls For Diversity Training, Additional Measures At Nick's In The Sticks

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Tuscaloosa County Branch NAACP is calling for accountability and additional measures by a local restaurant after one of its white employees admitted to using a racial slur to refer to Black customers.

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As Patch previously reported, Jack Moltz, the husband of the owner of Nick's in the Sticks, issued a public apology on Wednesday and admitted to the actions described in the now-viral video that was prompted widespread backlash against the business.

The local branch of the NAACP said while it appreciates Moltz's decision to come forward and take responsibility for his actions, the group remains deeply concerned about the impact of his words and the broader implications for the community.

"While we acknowledge Mr. Moltz's apology, we must hold him accountable for his actions and ensure that this incident leads to meaningful change," local NAACP President Lisa Young said in a statement on Thursday. "The Tuscaloosa County Branch NAACP will continue to monitor the situation and advocate for the rights and dignity of all community members."

The group's statement then said that while apologies can be a step toward accountability and healing, words alone are not enough.

This statement also called for Nick's in the Sticks to take concrete actions to demonstrate its commitment to change and ensure that the business is a place where all patrons, regardless of race, feel safe and respected.

The recommendations call for comprehensive diversity and sensitivity training for Moltz and other employees at the establishment, along with finding ways to meaningfully engage with the local Black community and committing to efforts to further combat racism.

"We hope that this incident serves as a catalyst for positive change and that other businesses will take this as an opportunity to reflect on their own practices and commit to fostering an environment of respect and equality," the group's statement said.

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