In bygone days, every “revolutionary” act, every reaction to a situation, every protest or claim, was filled with anger, even violence. Raised fists, loud voices, running, and destruction were common. Protesters, in the minds of many, had a specific profile.
They were labelled “unwashed” by those who would never take to the streets to demand anything, and women were called “hippies.” And then, suddenly, an image travels around the world. One of the most talented actresses of our time, with immense success in cinema, elegant and proud, walks the red carpet at Cannes in a dress perfectly suited for the occasion, designed by the famous fashion designer Jean-Paul Gaultier.
Black in the front, white in the back, with slits on both sides. Up to this point, the story would have been a typical lifestyle piece, with fashion critics analyzing Cate Blanchett’s impeccable style. However, as the cameras focus on her, she casually lifts the back of her dress, revealing the green lining inside.
The three colours, black, white, and green, combined with the red of the carpet, form the colours of the Palestinian flag. Blanchett says nothing. She continues her role as a graceful blonde, smiling and waving.
The message is clear, without a single word. Many may consider lifting a dress a gimmick, an act of “white privilege,” as Blanchett herself described in another context. But such acts, occurring unexpectedly and with global reach, create cracks in the system.
And those in po.
