Dave Portnoy responds to antisemitic incident at Philadelphia bar with educational approach
Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy has taken decisive action following an antisemitic incident at his Barstool Sansom Street bar in Philadelphia. A video that surfaced on social media over the weekend showed bottle-service waitresses holding an illuminated sign reading “F—k the Jews,” prompting widespread outrage and swift responses from Portnoy and affiliated institutions.
Portnoy, who is Jewish, expressed his anger in an emotional video posted to social media, stating, “I’ve been shaking. I’ve been so f—king mad for the last two hours.” He confirmed that two waitresses involved in the incident had been fired and criticized their role in the display.
Temple University also took action, suspending a student identified as having purchased the offensive sign. University President John Fry stated, “In the strongest terms possible, let me be clear: antisemitism is abhorrent. It has no place at Temple and acts of hatred and discrimination against any person or persons are not tolerated.”
Emergency Press Conference – There was a “Fuck the Jews” sign at our Philly bar last night. I am shaking I’m so mad pic.twitter.com/DRlQc9woiA
— Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) May 4, 2025
Educational Measures
In a follow-up video, Portnoy proposed an educational approach, stating that he would fund a trip for the individuals responsible to tour the Auschwitz concentration camp. “Maybe I can use this as a teaching moment,” he said. “We’re going to send these kids to Auschwitz, and they’re going to do a tour of the concentration camps… and hopefully learn something.”
Portnoy’s decision was informed by conversations with Robert Kraft, who leads an anti-Semitism advocacy group. The aim is to turn a “hideous incident into maybe a learning experience,” Portnoy explained.
Emergency Press Conference – I’m sending the people who ordered the “Fuck Jews” signs at my bar to Auschwitz to learn about the Holocaust. Rather than ruin a couple 20 year olds
lives maybe this can be used as a teaching moment pic.twitter.com/sci4hBPBFA
— Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) May 4, 2025
Emergency Press Conference – I’m sending the people who ordered the “Fuck Jews” signs at my bar to Auschwitz to learn about the Holocaust. Rather than ruin a couple 20 year olds
lives maybe this can be used as a teaching moment pic.twitter.com/sci4hBPBFA
— Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) May 4, 2025
Community and Institutional Responses
The Barstool Sansom Street issued a public apology, stating, “We take all forms of discrimination incredibly seriously and are particularly upset by the actions taken against our Jewish patrons, colleagues, partners and friends.”
The Philadelphia Police Department and the Anti-Defamation League are investigating the matter. Rabbi David Kushner, a chaplain with the Philadelphia police department, noted that Portnoy reached out and is distraught over the incident.
Public Reaction
Portnoy’s handling of the situation has received praise from various public figures.
Pennsylvania Senator Dave McCormick commended him for addressing the incident and using it as an opportunity to educate on the tragic history of anti-Jewish hatred.
X CEO Linda Yaccarino also lauded Portnoy’s efforts, stating, “Everyone needs to call out antisemitism when they see it. Thank you @stoolpresidente for doing the real work to ensure change.”
As the investigation continues, Portnoy has urged his followers to refrain from further targeting those involved, emphasizing the importance of education over retribution.
