A Gesture of Justice: Makayla Starks Receives New Electric Car After Racial Slur Incident
Mar 4, 2025 at 10:47 PM
When a routine oil change turned into an unexpected ordeal for Makayla Starks, the community rallied in solidarity. The racial slur printed on her car's maintenance sticker sparked outrage and support from across the country, culminating in a generous gift from a New York dealership.
A Heartfelt Act of Reparation
The Incident Unfolds
Makayla Starks, a resident of West Allis, Wisconsin, encountered an unsettling discovery after visiting Kunes Buick GMC for an oil change in early January. Upon retrieving her vehicle, she noticed a deeply offensive racial slur printed on the service sticker. This incident left her devastated and questioning the integrity of the establishment. "I sat in my car for nearly 20 minutes, overwhelmed with emotion," Starks recounted. The act not only violated her trust but also highlighted the persistent issues of racism within everyday interactions.The impact of this event reverberated beyond personal distress. It became a rallying point for discussions about systemic prejudice and accountability. Starks' experience underscored the need for greater vigilance and sensitivity in customer service environments. Her willingness to speak out against such insensitivity ignited a wave of support from various quarters.
National Attention and Support
Word of Starks' ordeal quickly spread, eventually reaching Family Nissan in Inwood, New York, located nearly 900 miles away. Ramzey Rizk, a representative at Family Nissan, came across the story through a Fox 6 news report that included footage of protesters outside the offending dealership. Moved by the injustice, the team at Family Nissan felt compelled to take action. "We wanted to amplify her voice and ensure her message was heard," Rizk explained. During a Saturday morning meeting, the idea to gift Starks a brand new Nissan Leaf electric car gained unanimous support. This gesture symbolized more than just compensation; it represented a commitment to justice and empathy. By offering an electric vehicle, Family Nissan aimed to eliminate future encounters with discriminatory practices associated with traditional automotive services like oil changes. "It’s about doing what’s right and showing solidarity," Rizk emphasized. The decision was met with enthusiasm and reflected the dealership's values of community and responsibility.
A Journey of Healing and Connection
Starks' journey to accept the new vehicle became an opportunity for healing and connection. Accompanied by her fiancé Joey Koepp, she traveled to Family Nissan in March. The visit was marked by warmth and genuine support. Staff members organized a celebratory event complete with food and camaraderie. Moreover, they discovered Starks' literary talent as a self-published author and purchased multiple copies of her book, "A Painting Bird’s Whisper: Poetry & Prose."This collection delves into themes of overcoming internalized shame and societal expectations. Through vivid poetry and prose, Starks shares her experiences as a neurodivergent woman of color navigating complex challenges such as childhood trauma, single motherhood, and intersectional discrimination. "The book is a testament to resilience and self-love," Starks remarked. The event evolved into a heartfelt book signing, further strengthening the bonds formed during her visit.
Seeking Accountability and Change
Despite the positive outcome, Starks remains committed to holding Kunes accountable for their actions. She believes the incident extends beyond a single employee's misconduct. "More than one person knew about this, and there were attempts to cover it up," Starks asserted. She demands transparency regarding the disciplinary measures taken and seeks assurance that such incidents will not recur. Kunes issued a statement expressing deep regret and terminating the involved employee. However, Starks feels this response falls short of true accountability. Advocates and supporters joined her in protests outside the dealership, emphasizing the need for systemic change. "We must ensure that every individual feels safe and respected," Starks stated. Her advocacy highlights the importance of addressing institutional biases and fostering inclusive environments.
