Temple student suspended after Antisemitic sign at Barstool Sports Bar in Philadelphia
After an antisemitic sign was displayed at a popular Philadelphia bar, swift action by Temple University and Barstool’s bold educational response have turned a night of hate into a national conversation on accountability, awareness, and the power of learning from history.
An incident at Barstool Sansom Street in Philadelphia sparked outrage when a video surfaced showing a waitress presenting an antisemitic sign during bottle service. The sign, reading "f--- the Jews," was displayed at a table and shared on social media, leading to widespread condemnation. Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy expressed his fury in an "emergency press conference," stating he was "shaking" with anger and vowed to hold those responsible accountable. He emphasized that such behavior would not be tolerated at his establishment.
Portnoy took immediate action by firing the two waitresses involved in the incident. He also identified the patrons who ordered the sign, including two individuals reportedly affiliated with Temple University. Portnoy decided to turn the incident into a teaching moment by arranging for the involved students to visit Auschwitz, aiming to educate them about the Holocaust and the consequences of hate speech.
Temple suspends student after antisemitic incident at Barstool Bar
Temple University responded promptly by placing one student on interim suspension. University President John Fry issued a statement condemning antisemitism in the strongest terms, asserting that such acts have no place at Temple and are not tolerated. The university's Division of Student Affairs is continuing its investigation into the matter.
After a controversial antisemitic incident at Barstool Sansom Street, Mohammed Adnan Khan’s apology and the bar’s closure highlight the importance of addressing hate speech and promoting education in combating rising antisemitism. Photo: X
Barstool Sansom Street released a statement on Instagram apologizing for its role in allowing hate speech to occur. The establishment acknowledged the severity of the incident and expressed a commitment to preventing similar occurrences in the future. The bar was temporarily closed following the incident, with patrons being asked to leave as the situation was addressed.
Barstool incident highlights surge in U.S. antisemitism and push for education over punishment
The incident has drawn attention to the broader issue of rising antisemitism in the United States. The Anti-Defamation League reported a record-high number of antisemitic incidents in the country last year, with a significant portion related to tensions in the Middle East. This event at Barstool Sansom Street underscores the ongoing challenges in combating hate speech and promoting inclusivity.
Portnoy's decision to educate rather than solely punish those involved has sparked discussions about effective responses to hate incidents. By facilitating a visit to Auschwitz, he aims to foster understanding and reflection among the perpetrators.
