Bella Hadid Apologises After Culturally Insensitive Post | ewmoda
 

Why is Bella Hadid Coming Under Fire From UAE and Saudi Fans? Here’s Everything to Know

Bella Hadid apologizes to her Arab fans after an alleged mistake on social media.

Posted on

18 June 2019

Contributed by

Clarice Awa

Editor Clarice Awa at ExpatWoman
Bella Hadid apologizes to her Arab fans

''This was an honest mistake on an early morning...''

Supermodel Bella Hadid came under fire this week after posting what some claim to be a culturally insensitive photo that disrespected Arab countries.

On Sunday, June 16 Hadid posted the following photo on her Instagram stories:

Post by Bella Hadid that offended UAE and KSA

The now-deleted photo displays airplanes with the UAE and Saudi Arabian flag, with the bottom of Hadid’s shoe facing the vehicles from behind an airport window.

In Arab culture, presenting the sole of your shoe to someone is a gesture of disrespect. Fans immediately believed that Hadid had meant to offend the two nations, as it seemed as though her foot was kicking the flags.

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After the photo sparked outrage among Arab fans and netizens online, it prompted the hashtag #BellaHadidIsRacist which went trending on Twitter and occupied the #1 spot for some time.

People online began demanding for brands such as Dior and Calvin Klein to cancel their contracts with Hadid. Many others wanted future companies to keep from working with her.

‘’I have never and will never be the one to talk down on these countries.’’

Hadid, who comes from Palestinian roots, issued an apology on her social media in both English and Arabic claiming that it was unintentional.

Hadid said, "I would never want my posts or platform to be used for hate against anyone, especially those of my own beautiful & powerful heritage.’’

"I love and care so much about the Muslim and Arab side of my family as well as my brothers and sisters throughout the world,’’ she added.


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