It is summertime in the Gulf and while for some expats that might mean bikinis and short shorts, activists in Qatar are saying no thank you with their dress code campaign.
First launched four years ago, the campaign has been met with varying degrees of success and derision. This year's slogan, "You Matter in Qatar," is meant to be inclusive and focus on educating both Qataris and expats.
The goal of this grassroots initiative is to educate people how to dress conservatively. Which sounds nice, but maybe the issue isn't that people don't know how to dress conservatively, and more just that they don't want to.
The dress code activists don't seem to think so. Previously, the group handed out shawls, chocolates and leaflets showcasing proper attire. This year, the group is also is organizing talks, workshops and seminars with local schools and international women's groups to raise awareness for modesty.
The new slogan is a departure from last year's – "Reflect Your Respect" – which some felt may have gone too far. Expats felt that they were being targeted while Qataris, who allegedly were also "wearing perfume, heavy makeup, tight pants, high heels," were given a free pass.
Another choice slogan from last year's initiative included, "Leggings are not pants."
That's a catchphrase we can get behind.