(JTA) — The writer and activist known as MuslimGirl has refused to accept an award from Revlon because it hired Israeli actress Gal Gadot as its new spokeswoman.
Amani al-Khatahtbeh, 26, an American-born blogger of Palestinian and Jordanian origin, rejected Revlon’s Changemaker Award on Tuesday.
“As much as this means to me and I would love to be there to celebrate with you, I cannot accept this award from Revlon with Gal Gadot as the ambassador,” she wrote in a post on her personal Twitter account. “Her vocal support of the Israel Defense Forces’ actions in Palestine goes against MuslimGirl.com’s morals and values.”
“I can’t, in good conscience, accept this award from the brand and celebrate Gal’s ambassadorship after the IDF imprisoned a 16-year-old girl named Ahed Tamimi last month, an activist who is currently still incarcerated,” she also wrote.
“I think we are in a moment where we must persist that women’s empowerment includes ALL women. From the bottom of my heart, I feel I would not embody the meaning of the Changemaker Award if I were to accept in these circumstances.” She tagged Gadot, who starred in the megahit “Wonder Woman,” in the posts.
Along with her Instagram and Twitter accounts, al-Khatahtbeh runs a website with female and Muslim-focused content. She also is the author of “MuslimGirl: A Coming of Age.”
Last week, Revlon announced its new campaign, titled “Live Boldly,” with Gadot as its frontwoman.
Gadot, a former Miss Israel, served in the Israeli army.
Meanwhile, a movie theater in the northern Israeli town of Nazareth Ilit is being be named for the actress.
“We are going to name the new cinema after Gal Gadot, an Israeli actress who brings honor to this country,” municipal spokeswoman Orna Yosef told AFP earlier this week. “This is a message for our young people because Gal Gadot is an example of success, who has shown that dreams can be attained.”
The Gal Cinema was scheduled to open Wednesday.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
