An interview with the creator of #StripForJackie

Earlier this week , Lebanon woke up to a new "scandal". You might think it had to do with explosions, theft , domestic violence or any of the usual incidents on the daily Lebanese menu, yet this scandal which caused an obscene and somewhat awkward amount of outrage was all about ...Well... the "B" word. 

Our very own Olympic skier Jackie Chamoun, was being criticized for taking part in a semi nude professional photo-shoot for a sports calendar three years ago. Photos from "behind the scenes" were leaked prior this week and Caretaker Sports and Youth Minister Karami had requested an immediate investigation declaring that "Chamoun is hurting the reputation of Lebanon"!

This declaration did not go unnoticed especially by the online community! Hash-tags such as #NotAScandal #BoobsnotBombs started circulating followed by the one which caused Lebanon to "strip for Jackie"! 


Men and women from all around the country took their clothes off, and were soon followed by advertising campaigns inspired by the hash-tag. But how was it created and why?


Social media specialist Cyrill Reaidy came up with the idea in just a few minutes! "My timeline was filled with news of the so called scandal and Minister Karami's reaction was beyond disappointing!" Reaidy says. The 23 year old refused to stay silent and thought we should all "show some skin to prove nudity is just plain OK and that we need to respect and support Jackie Chamoun for her talent and while she represents Lebanon in the Olympics".

#StripForJackie took a few minutes to attract the attention of all, although its creator never expected it to get this far. He says " I launched it hoping to create some awareness and support Jackie, but i never expected it to get this big and i am glad it did! We need to stop judging people based on our own insecurities and i believe we should focus on solving more pressing issues". 

Reaidy also wished Jackie Chamoun the best of luck saying " I thank Jackie for inspiring this "revolution"!