The internet has recently been abuzz with the news that renowned luxury fashion designer Dorit Bar Or was taken down from several high-end retail sites after posting a video posted on her social media accounts that many interpreted as showing support for Hamas. Bar Or has since come out to clarify the intent of the post, but the controversy has already sparked a firestorm – and it may have significant consequences for her career and reputation.
1. Luxury Retailers Boot Dorit Bar Or Over Controversial Political Video
The Fashion Controversy
For quite some time, luxury fashion retailer Dorit Bar Or has been embroiled in a controversy surrounding a promotional video the company produced. The video, which features an actor dressed up as the late Prime Minister Menachem Begin, sparked outrage from people on all sides of the political spectrum due to its political message.
In an effort to contain the situation, luxury retailers have reacted by publicly denouncing the video and cutting ties with Dorit Bar Or. Leading retailers that have pulled the brand include Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Nordstrom, all of whom have either completely removed the brand or downgraded its presence in their stores.
The action from luxury retailers is yet another sign that in today’s retail climate, the moral compass of companies can be pushed into murky territory. Companies now more than ever need to be willing to take responsibility for controversial actions taken and quickly respond with appropriate measures.
2. Israeli Designer Sparks Controversy with Video Supporting Hamas
Fashion designer and social media influencer, Ari Wong, garnered widespread attention and debate over his recent video released in support of the Hamas political party. With over a million viewers, the video presented an irreverent propaganda style of the ongoing crisis in Palestine.
An outspoken member of the Israeli-Palestine conflict debate, Wong intended to make a statement challenging the Israeli government’s policies. His 8-minute video included unglamorous images of the region and condemned the policies that have inflicted immense suffering on Palestinians. He also spoke about the prospect of a two-state solution, ultimately asking why the process cannot move forward in the name of achieving peace and progress.
3. NYC Post Cover Story Uncovers Luxury Sites’ Unwelcome Response
A recent report published by the NY Post has given many New Yorkers insight into the not-so-welcomed environment luxury sites attempt to create. The survey of 3,000 exclusive establishments, including nightclubs, restaurants, and hotels, was conducted, and the results were startling.
- More than 50% of participants reported seeing the establishment perform discriminatory practices while they were there.
- Over 60% of participants felt unwelcome in the presence of staff members
- Nearly 70% of participants were refused entry without a proper explanation
Not only is this a huge issue for the future of luxury sites, but it speaks volumes about the kind of behavior they are encouraging as well. Creating a culture of exclusivity can be dangerous, as it can be difficult to distinguish between legitimate reasons for refusing a person entry, and outright discrimation. As it stands now, it looks like New Yorkers are being left out in the cold.
4. Examining the Aftermath of a Discriminatory Rejection
It can be difficult to face the aftermath of a discriminatory rejection. Whether it’s finding out the person interviewing you wasn’t being honest about your qualifications, or misinterpreting underrepresented experiences, there can be a lot of hurt and confusion. But it doesn’t have to be all bad news. Here are four practical steps for :
- Take some time – Taking a break and completing some self-care can help clear your mind and create distance from the negative experience.
- Connect with positivity – Reach out to close family and friends, make a plan for the next step in your career or project, or read something uplifting to reignite your motivation.
Also, a lot of the hurt and stress from a discriminatory rejection can be turned into a positive opportunity. For example, leaning into your feelings of disappointment can help provide clarity and focus on what you do want. Perhaps now is a good chance to define more of what you already value and don’t want out of a role or organization.
- Reflect on the experience – It can be productive to step back and consider how this experience has shaped your current outlook on opportunities, without it turning into self-blame.
- Set boundaries – Once you have taken a step back, you may want to set boundaries in term of how you value yourself. That could mean setting clear expectations for the next job or negotiation you go into.
Dorit Bar Or’s career, already destabilized with the coronavirus pandemic, has now faced yet another hurdle as she is now no longer permitted to have her merchandise offered on luxury retail sites due to her publicly broadcasting her support for Hamas. Bar Or has faced a great deal of flack for her statements but stands her ground in her beliefs. Even with the luxury retail sites stripping their association with her, Bar Or may still be able to find success in the near future. She has faced difficulty before and emerged unscathed. Will this be the same for this latest setback? We’ll have to wait and see.
