Amani Al-Khatahtbeh, a journalist and activist who founded the MuslimGirl blog, has rejected an award from cosmetics giant Revlon because the company’s brand ambassador is Israel-born model turned Hollywood star Gal Gadot.

Ms Al-Khatahtbeh founded news and social commentary site MuslimGirl in 2009 when she was 17 because, she says, she "was fed up with the misleading misconceptions surrounding Islam".

This week, she says, Revlon offered her a Changemaker Award in recognition of her work. However in a lengthy Instagram post she outlines why she feels unable to accept it.

“It means so much to me when @muslimgirl's work is recognized and elevated in spaces from which we've been traditionally excluded. But that's what makes it even more important at this moment to elevate and stand up for ALL women and girls.

“This shouldn't have to be said, but we can't accept role models that support the oppression of women and girls in other parts of the world.”

"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," Al Khatahtbeh said.

 

This is why I couldn't accept @revlon's Changemaker Award celebrating their new #liveboldy campaign featuring @gal_gadot. It means so much to me when @muslimgirl's work is recognized and elevated in spaces from which we've been traditionally excluded. But that's what makes it even more important at this moment to elevate and stand up for ALL women and girls. This shouldn't have to be said, but we can't accept role models that support the oppression of women and girls in other parts of the world. Especially after we just celebrated MLK Jr. and as we approach the one year anniversary of the Women's March, we all have an URGENT obligation to talk back, speak our truths, and insist on the right side of history. The personal is political — yes, even, and ESPECIALLY, when it comes to beauty — and I don't know about you, but my feminism is inclusive of ALL women and nothing less. That's what being a changemaker means to me.

Gal Gadot, best known to a worldwide audience as the star of Wonder Woman and the Fast and Furious franchise, was born in the Israeli town of Petah Tikva and raised in its neighbouring city of Rosh Ha’Ayin. Like most Israelis, she served in the IDF, serving two years and rising to the position of combat instructor.

On being appointed Revlon’s brand ambassador earlier this year Ms Gadot said: “There’s a cultural shift happening...where feminine power is recognized, and I’m so proud that I get to witness and live this amazing change.”

Ms Gadot follows previous brand ambassadors such as Jennifer Connelly and Gwen Stefani. Revlon’s site contains no mention of the Changemaker award, for this or any previous year and as yet the company’s press representatives have made no comment on this story.

The JC has contacted Revlon seeking clarification.