#SkipTheTrip: Boycott Against Israel Holiday Occupies Oscars Swag Bags

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The Oscars gift swags are some of most coveted goodie bags around, but a new addition to the offered goods – a $76,198 trip to Israel – is causing a stir among actors, actresses and activists alike.

The five Academy Award-nominated directors and the 20 lead and supporting actor and actress nominees will be receiving the 10-day trip, which is being funded by the Israeli government. The gift bag is not affiliated with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which organises the Oscars.

The hashtag #SkipTheTrip has since been launched by activists against the occupation of Palestine and the perceived history of genocide by the Israeli government against the Palestinian people. Two US-based groups campaigning for an end to Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian Territories placed a full-page ad in the Los Angeles Times against the swag bag addition.

As the trip is partially paid for by the Israeli government, the campaign contends that the offered holiday is a part of a larger ‘Brand Israel’ strategy – in order to distract holiday-makers from the occupation. Celebrities that will be offered the trip include Leonardo DiCaprio, Cate Blanchett, Jennifer Lawrence, Matt Damon and Kate Winslet.