In a twist of cultural confusion that sparked social media outrage, California's DMV has apologized and recalled a personalized license plate that some believed mocked the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, while the owner's family insists it's a celebration of their Filipino heritage.
The controversy erupted when watchdog group StopAntisemitism posted a photo of a Tesla Cybertruck near Los Angeles bearing the plate "LOLOCT7," interpreting "LOL" as "laugh out loud" paired with the date of the tragic attack. However, the owner's son quickly came forward with a different explanation: "LOLO" means grandfather in Tagalog, "CT" stands for Cybertruck, and "7" represents the owner's seven children.
It isn't impossible. But despite the family's explanation, the DMV has moved to recall the "shocking plates," calling them an "egregious oversight" and promising to strengthen their review process. The plate's owner maintains the right to appeal the decision.
The case raises questions about the DMV's screening process and the challenges of navigating cultural sensitivities in America's diverse society.
