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- vablaisep
- Jun 16
- 2 min read
Warm Up
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Reading
In a bold and unprecedented move, Lebanon's sole English-language daily newspaper, The Daily Star, took a strong stand against the nation's myriad crises by publishing an edition devoid of news. Instead of the usual array of articles and reports, readers were met with blank, white pages punctuated only by a solemn proclamation: "Lebanon".
The symbolic gesture was not an act of journalistic negligence but a deliberate act of protest against Lebanon's deteriorating economic and political landscape. With a single banner highlighting the country's pressing issues and a poignant image of the national symbol, the cedar tree, the message was clear: "Wake up before it's too late."
Editor-in-chief Nadim Ladki elucidated the purpose behind this silent publication, emphasizing the urgent need to address Lebanon's mounting challenges. Speaking to CNN, Ladki articulated, "The aim is to ring the alarm bells about all the challenges that our country is facing and to urge everyone in Lebanon to work towards resolving these crises."
The headlines within the paper underscored the gravity of the situation: "Government deadlock," "Pollution at alarming levels," and "Public debt close to $100 million." These issues, alongside unemployment and the proliferation of illegal weapons, paint a distressing portrait of a nation in turmoil.
Ladki's call to action extends beyond the confines of journalism, urging politicians and citizens alike to unite in the face of adversity. "It's enough that people take notice of these problems and think," she asserted.
The silent edition of The Daily Star serves as a poignant reminder of the power of the press to amplify voices and catalyze change. In a world inundated with noise, sometimes silence speaks loudest. As Lebanon grapples with its challenges, the empty pages serve as a canvas for reflection and a rallying cry for collective action.
Reading Comprehension
What did The Daily Star publish in its recent edition?
Why did The Daily Star choose to publish blank pages?
What was the message conveyed by the single banner in the newspaper?
Discussion Questions
Do you think it was a good idea for The Daily Star to publish blank pages? Why or why not?
What does the message "Lebanon" on the front page of the newspaper signify?
How effective is this form of protest in drawing attention to Lebanon's problems?
Do you believe newspapers should engage in activism like this? Why or why not?
What other methods could The Daily Star have used to raise awareness about Lebanon's issues?
Why did the editor-in-chief emphasize the need for unity in addressing the country's challenges?
How do you think readers reacted to seeing blank pages instead of news articles?
How might the silent publication impact the government's response to the country's issues?
What role do you think the media should play in addressing societal problems?
How important is it for citizens to be aware of their country's issues?
