The Gay Waitress Tipping Controversy meme originates from a 2013 viral story involving waitress Dayna Morales, who alleged a family left a note saying they couldn't tip her due to her lifestyle. The story sparked massive internet support and donations until the family produced evidence showing they had indeed tipped and the note was potentially fabricated. Now, the meme is frequently used to mock performative social media posts, questionable viral claims, or the 'I would tip but...' trope that appears on receipts across the internet to highlight perceived social injustices or personal grievances.