Scarlett Johansson Leaves Humanitarian Group
Oxfam International is a group that opposes all trade from Israeli settlements, claiming they are illegal and deny Palestinian rights.
"Scarlett Johansson has respectfully decided to end her ambassador role with Oxfam after eight years," a statement by her spokesperson said. "She and Oxfam have a fundamental difference of opinion in regards to the boycott, divestment, and sanctions movement. She is very proud of her accomplishments and fundraising efforts during her tenure with Oxfam."
Earlier this month, the "Her" actress signed on to be the best global brand ambassador of SodaStream International Ltd., according to the Huffington Post. She's set to appear in an ad for the at-home soda maker during the Super Bowl game on Feb. 2.
SodaStream had to make changes to their original ad for the Super Bowl after it was initially banned for its references to Coke and Pepsi, both sponsors of the NFL Championship game.
Pro-Palestinian activists have criticized SodaStream for maintaining a large factory in an Israeli settlement in the West Bank, a territory claimed by the Palestinians and captured by Israel in 1967.
Johansson said she supports economic cooperation and social interaction between Israel and Palestine, in response to the criticism.
Since 2007, Johansson had been an Oxfam global ambassador raising funds and promoting awareness about global poverty. As an Oxfam ambassador, she traveled to India, Sri Lanka, and Kenya, bringing to light the significant impact of traumatic disasters and chronic poverty.
It seems that Ms. Johansson had a change of heart after her long term relationship with Oxfam just before signing to endorse SodaStream.
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