Israeli Musician Verbally Attacked in Pennsylvania Burger King, Employee Fired and Raises Nearly $100K Online

Israeli musician Rami Feinstein was verbally attacked by a Burger King employee in Pennsylvania after he wore a Star of David necklace. The employee, Ariana Hamilton, shouted "Free Palestine" at Feinstein while he was purchasing food for his family. Feeling threatened, Feinstein canceled his order and left the restaurant, later sharing a video of the incident on social media questioning the safety of the chain for Jewish customers.

Burger King swiftly fired Hamilton and issued a statement condemning antisemitism, hatred, and discrimination. Hamilton responded by posting a video on Instagram claiming her remarks were an exercise of free speech, not personal hatred, and said her reaction was prompted after Feinstein revealed his Israeli identity.

Following her dismissal, Hamilton launched a crowdfunding campaign to cover basic expenses until she finds new employment, raising close to $100,000. Feinstein, temporarily in New Jersey on a mission with the Jewish community, emphasized the importance of Jews and Israelis being proud and unafraid of their identity. He highlighted his personal experiences with antisemitism and his commitment to encouraging Jewish pride through his music and public presence.

Feinstein told N12 that the goal of sharing the video was to empower Jews worldwide to stand up against normalized hatred and to support their rights as Jews, Zionists, and human beings. He expressed pride in wearing his Star of David necklace openly despite hostility and stressed the need for solidarity within the Jewish community.