An internet hoax led some to believe a Springfield restaurant was posting help wanted ads that were discriminatory. The ads were soliciting applications for servers and bartenders at Dublin Pub (1975 Wabash Ave.) in Springfield. The owner, Joe Rupnik, says he believes an ex-employee tampered with the ads by hacking into the establishment's online accounts. He says a lawyer is looking into it. The ads were placed on Craigslist and Indeed.com.
A screenshot of one of the ads has been making the rounds on social media - with over 300 shares on Facebook. The bottom of the ad reads: "Be aware.....we DO NOT hire African Americans or Gays!" Rupnik tells WUIS all are welcome to apply for the available positions. He suggests interested parties apply in person between the hours of 2 and 4pm.
Rupnik says he's been in the restaurant industry for 40 years, previous ventures include Vic's Pizza and Pasta House. He says he currently has more than ten black employees, and, "I don't ask people what their sexual orientation is, nor do I care."
