Antisemitic Bowling Alley Staff Fired After Targeting Jewish Teens in Antwerp

A disturbing case of antisemitism unfolded at an Antwerp bowling alley last week, when five Jewish teenagers wearing yarmulkes were subjected to discriminatory behavior by staff members, Arutz Sheva reported Wednesday. The offending employees were fired and the chain’s President subsequently issued an apology.

The incident, which occurred last Monday, involved the alley’s screen displaying the label “5 JODEN” — Dutch for “5 Jews.” The teens reported being ignored by two employees who continued serving other customers while deliberately excluding them.

One bartender at the venue was seen wearing a t-shirt emblazoned with the word “Palestine” in both English and Arabic.

Ralph Pais, vice president of Yid, a Antwerp-based center, clarified that the event happened at a Gamestate bowling alley near the city’s Jewish neighborhood.

“This is not the first time that antisemitic incidents have occurred in this establishment,” Pais told Arutz Sheva, noting that multiple complaints have previously been lodged against Gamestate Antwerpen, including at least one formal grievance.

Following the incident, Gamestate issued a public statement expressing its dismay. The company said it was “shocked and disappointed” and confirmed that the two employees involved were dismissed.

Chain owner Roel Veltmeijer also offered an apology, stating, “We offer our sincere apologies to anyone who feels hurt or excluded by this. This behavior absolutely does not fit with the values of Gamestate, where inclusivity, respect and fun are paramount.”