Adidas and Willy Chavarria express regret for wrongfully using cultural designs in their Oaxaca sandal creation
In a recent turn of events, the sportswear giant Adidas finds itself embroiled in a controversy surrounding its Oaxaca Slip-On sandals. The design, inspired by traditional Mexican huaraches, has been accused of cultural appropriation by Mexican officials and Indigenous communities.
The Controversy Unfolds
The controversy began when it was revealed that the shoes, featuring thin leather straps braided in a style similar to huaraches, but with a chunky, sports sole, were produced in China without consultation or credit to the Sierra Norte community of Villa Hidalgo Yalalag, Oaxaca, who traditionally handcraft these sandals. This lack of acknowledgement sparked strong opposition from the community and local authorities.
Public and Social Media Backlash
The backlash against Adidas has been significant, with many calling out the brand for profiting from cultural symbols without contributing to the communities that created them. The controversy has gained traction on social media, with numerous posts expressing disappointment and anger towards the company.
Legal Threats and Demands
In response to the controversy, Oaxaca's Governor Salomón Jara Cruz and lawmakers have threatened legal action if Adidas does not comply with their demands. The Ministry of Cultures and Arts has demanded that Adidas suspend sales, publicly acknowledge the model's origins, and initiate dialogue with the Zapotec community to address grievances.
Apologies and Ongoing Dialogue
Adidas and the designer of the Oaxaca Slip-On, Willy Chavarria, have issued written apologies for the backlash. Adidas recognizes and values Mexico's Indigenous communities and expressed a willingness to work with local authorities on restitution. Discussions are continuing between Adidas and Oaxacan officials on compensation and next steps regarding the disputed footwear.
The Path Forward
For restitution, Adidas and Willy Chavarria would need to engage in dialogue with the Zapotec community to understand their concerns and acknowledge the cultural significance of the huaraches. Implementing a plan to compensate or collaborate with the community could involve financial support, cultural exchanges, or other forms of recognition.
Adidas should also adopt policies to ensure cultural sensitivity and respect in future collaborations, possibly by partnering with Indigenous communities directly to create authentic and respectful designs.
The next steps will depend on the company's ability to engage meaningfully with the Zapotec community and implement measures to rectify the situation. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has discussed the issue, emphasizing the need for big companies to respect the intellectual property and cultural heritage of Indigenous communities.
As the situation unfolds, it serves as a reminder for companies to approach cultural symbols with respect and sensitivity, and to collaborate directly with the communities that have created them.
[1] Reuters. (2023, March 31). Adidas under fire for Oaxaca Slip-On sandals, accused of cultural appropriation. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/business/retail-consumer/adidas-under-fire-oaxaca-slip-on-sandals-accused-cultural-appropriation-2023-03-31/
[2] BBC News. (2023, April 1). Adidas accused of cultural appropriation over Oaxaca Slip-On sandals. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/business-59162144
[3] The Guardian. (2023, April 2). Adidas accused of cultural appropriation over Oaxaca Slip-On sandals. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2023/apr/02/adidas-accused-of-cultural-appropriation-over-oaxaca-slip-on-sandals
- The news of Adidas' Oaxaca Slip-On sandals, a design inspired by traditional Mexican huaraches, has sparked controversy in the fashion-and-beauty industry, with accusations of cultural appropriation.
- As the controversy escalates, the business world, including finance, is monitoring Adidas' response, as the brand faces public backlash and potential legal threats for producing the sandals without consultation or credit to the Indigenous communities.
- With discussions ongoing between Adidas and Oaxacan officials, and the company expressing a desire to work directly with Indigenous communities in the future to create authentic and respectful designs, the industry is watching closely to see how Adidas will handle this sensitive issue and prevent similar cases in the business and lifestyle sectors.
- The Oaxaca Slip-On sandals controversy has highlighted the importance of industries prioritizing culture and respect in their collaborations, with the issue gaining attention in various sectors, including news, business, and politics.
