Springfield, Mo. – Jerry Hoffman, the owner of Springfield Raceway, issued a public apology on Tuesday after a Halloween photo he posted on social media resurfaced. The image, taken more than a decade ago, shows Hoffman in a costume with his face and hands painted black, a portrayal that many in the community described as blackface.
Community reaction
Dr. Zipporah Burns, a spokesperson for the NAACP Springfield chapter, said the post was deeply hurtful. “I understand Halloween was just a few days ago, but that was very hurtful to a lot of people in the community,” Burns told KY3.
Elder Cody Yanez, also of the NAACP Springfield, emphasized that blackface has a long history of racism. “Blackface is racist in 2026, but it was racist 15, 20, 50, 100, 200 years ago. It’s been racist. It never ceased being racist,” Yanez said.
Owner’s explanation and apology
In a phone interview, Hoffman explained that the photo was taken “about 12 to 13 years ago” when he attended a Halloween party dressed as Eddie Murphy’s Saturday Night Live character Buckwheat. He said the costume was intended as a comedic homage, not a statement of hate.
“It was about, I want to say, 12 to 13 years ago, I went to a Halloween costume party on Halloween night, dressed as Eddie Murphy from ‘Saturday Night Live’ portraying Buckwheat,” Hoffman said.
After the criticism grew online, Hoffman removed the post and posted a written apology on his social‑media account. “The ones that are offended, I’m sorry. I’m sorry. The post was taken down when I realized it offended people,” he said.
Broader concerns in the community
Some residents expressed that the incident reflects a larger sense of unease about safety and inclusion in Springfield. Michael Moret, a longtime raceway fan, said the controversy has left many feeling uncertain about whether they can feel safe and welcome at local events.
“There is this fear that I could not be safe, and that type of emotional pressure and the emotional labor is very exhausting. So it’s important for Black people, queer people, other marginalized communities to know when they go into a place they’re safe. There are Black people who love raceway stuff,” Moret said.
Looking forward
The NAACP Springfield called for continued dialogue and education around racial sensitivity, urging local businesses and public figures to consider the impact of their actions on all community members. While Hoffman’s apology was welcomed by some, others noted that the damage to trust had already been done.
“Why in 2026 are you still resharing that, knowing that it’s going to cause an uproar in this community from all different races? It’s not okay,” Burns asked.
The incident underscores the ongoing conversation in Springfield about how to foster a welcoming environment for residents of every background while respecting the city’s traditions and family‑focused values.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
