Dave Portnoy expressed that he aims to turn a troubling situation into a learning opportunity rather than simply “burning” those responsible for an offensive sign featuring anti-Semitic language at one of the bars in Baasur, Philadelphia.
Initially angry, Portnoy posted a video on social media addressing the incident, but later shared his intentions regarding the individuals involved, asking, “What should happen to the two involved?”
He decided to arrange for them to visit the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland—not as a punishment, but as a means of education.
“The more I reflect on it, these kids are just like, I don’t know, want to say a bit reckless,” Portnoy mentioned. “They were drunk. Do we really want to ruin someone’s life?”
The controversy erupted when patrons at the Bar Stool Sansom Street Bar in Philadelphia ordered a sign that read “F-K The Jews.”
The video quickly gained traction, with Portnoy making a first statement early Sunday, where the person overseeing the sign threatened to “smash it down.”
In a calmer follow-up, he explained his shift in perspective, saying, “So initially, I thought about completely destroying these people’s lives, but maybe that’s not the best way to handle things. Perhaps this can be an educational moment.”
“I know it’s a bit cliché for me, but I spoke with the individuals involved, who I do recognize as being sincere. I spoke with my family about sending them to Auschwitz, and they agreed to go.”
Portnoy also aimed to clarify his confusion about Auschwitz being in Germany, while stating he had talked to Robert Kraft, a prominent figure who heads an organization combating anti-Semitism.
Previously, he mentioned that two waitstaff who participated in the incident were let go from their positions.
Barr condemned the actions, labeling them “deplorable” and expressing that these unfortunate incidents go against their values.
“Hopefully, if this goes well, they’ll learn something, and perhaps their lives won’t be ruined. More importantly, I hope others will realize it’s not just about the words you throw around. For me, that would make it a worthwhile outcome,” he noted.
Portnoy additionally urged his supporters to ease off on targeting those involved.
However, apart from Portnoy’s initial outrage, further repercussions were unfolding. Temple University announced that one student has already been suspended, with an investigation by Student Affairs in progress.
“Any additional students found involved will face strict disciplinary measures as per the student conduct code, potentially including expulsion,” the statement from the university asserted.
“Let me be clear in the strongest terms: anti-Semitism is repugnant. It has no place here, and acts of hate and discrimination will not be tolerated at this university,” the statement continued.
