The German company Adidas presented the public apologies on Thursday to an indigenous community in Mexico for inspired by traditional sandals to create a new design, which the artisans and the country’s authorities denounced as a cultural appropriation.
The “Oaxaca Slip-on” model has aroused shields, both from the president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, as the residents of Villa Hidalgo Yalaalag, in the state of Oaxaca (South), where the leaders of the sportswear brand went to know the local authorities and artisans who make traditional sandals called “Huaraches”.
The shoes of the German company “were designed inspired by an original design (…) specific to the tradition of the people of Villa Hidalgo Yalalag,” said Karen González, legal director of Adidas Mexico. “We understand that this situation has been able to cause dissatisfaction and, therefore, we present our public apologies,” he added.
Adidas had already apologized and reaffirmed his commitment to collaborate with the local community in a “respectful dialogue that honors his cultural heritage.” The designer of this shoe, Willy Chavarria, American of Mexican origin, also apologized.
Braided leather straps
Huaraches made in Oaxaca are in an intertwining of carefully braided leather strips. The Adidas version is very similar, except for its thick sole. Oaxaca artisans represent up to three pairs per day, sold about $ 20. Adidas Oaxaca Slip-on “was launched in early August, but after the uproar was raised, he was eliminated from online sales platforms. The Mexican government had said that he wanted to claim Adidas compensation.
Mexico has already denounced the unauthorized use of the art of its native communities by the main brands such as China Shein, Zara Spanish or Venezolan Carolina Herrera.
Source: BFM TV
