Emma Watson plays many roles, including feminist prophet to certain women—but ancient Jewish man she is not.
In a photo posted to Instagram Friday night, Ivanka Trump attributes the quote “If not me, who? If not now, when?” to Emma Watson. Now, I don’t believe it’s common knowledge that it was Rabbi Hillel the Elder (Babylon born-and-raised circa 100 BC), who originally said this. But I do think most people know Emma Watson did not say this first.
It’s true that Watson literally spoke these words in a 2014 UN speech, and did not explicitly attribute it (just after properly citing an Edmund Burke quote, I might add). Whether or not this was intentional on Watson’s part, it shouldn’t have fooled anyone.
The apocryphal post can also be viewed on Trump’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.
Here are some quotes Watson did originate, courtesy of the Internet:
“If I was going to be a princess, I’d be a warrior princess, definitely.”
“With airbrushing and digital manipulation, fashion can project an unobtainable image that’s dangerously unhealthy. I’m excited about the aging process.”
“I don’t have perfect teeth.”
“Emma (like many high-profile individuals) set up an offshore company for the sole purpose of protecting her anonymity and safety.” (Actually, that last one’s from her PR rep.)
All words to live by, may they shepherd you through the weekend.