American designer expresses remorse for allegedly taking inspiration from Adidas sneakers, a controversial action that stirred controversy in Mexico
Controversy Over Adidas' Oaxaca Slip-Ons Highlights Importance of Indigenous Cultural Heritage
Adidas is currently embroiled in a significant controversy in Mexico over its "Oaxaca Slip-On," a sneaker-sandal hybrid inspired by traditional Indigenous Zapotec huaraches from Oaxaca. The shoe, which has been accused of cultural appropriation, has sparked strong condemnation from government officials, cultural advocates, and local Indigenous leaders [1][2][3].
The Governor of Oaxaca, Salomón Jara, demanded that Adidas immediately stop selling the shoe, publicly apologize, provide proper credit, and offer compensation. He emphasized that "Culture is not sold, it is respected" [1][2]. Local artisans have expressed that Adidas's design is a "cheap copy," damaging the tradition and craftsmanship of their culture [2].
In response, Adidas issued an apology acknowledging the importance of Mexico's Indigenous cultural heritage and expressed willingness to sit down with local officials to discuss ways to "repair the damage" caused by the release of the shoe [2]. The company appears to be in damage control mode but has not yet detailed specific reparative measures or collaboration plans publicly [1][2].
Designer Willy Chavarría, involved in the Adidas collaboration, initially presented the shoe as an homage to his roots but has not publicly responded to the controversy or requests for comment as of now [3]. Chavarria, who is Mexican-American, has stated that the design has appropriated the name of Oaxaca and was not developed in direct and meaningful partnership with the Oaxacan community [4]. He acknowledged that the sandals did not live up to the respect and collaborative approach deserved by the community of Villa Hidalgo Yalalag, from where the design is said to have originated.
This incident fits into a broader context of ongoing tension in Mexico, where authorities and Indigenous communities have pushed back against global brands for copying traditional designs without authorization, prompting calls for stricter regulations and guidelines to protect Indigenous artists while allowing fair collaboration [2].
The handicraft industry in Mexico is a crucial contributor to the economy, particularly in states like Oaxaca. It contributes around 10% of the GDP in states including Oaxaca, Jalisco, Michoacan, and Guerrero [5]. Nearly half a million people rely on handmade products for their livelihood [5].
This controversy is not the first time a fashion brand has been accused of appropriating Indigenous cultures in Mexico. The Oaxaca Slip-Ons controversy highlights the economic importance of Indigenous cultural heritage in Mexico and brings attention to the need for fashion brands to respect and collaborate with Indigenous communities when using cultural elements in their designs.
The situation remains evolving as discussions between Adidas and Oaxaca authorities continue [1][2][3].
References:
- La Jornada
- Reuters
- The Fashion Law
- The Cut
- Mexico News Daily
- The Governor of Oaxaca, Salomón Jara, insists that Adidas should stop selling their controversial Oaxaca Slip-Ons and apologize, as cultural heritage is not a commodity to be sold but a tradition to be respected.
- This incident underscores the ongoing tension in Mexico regarding global brands copying Indigenous designs without proper authorization, with the fashion industry under increasing pressure to collaborate respectfully with these communities.
- The American fashion designer, Willy Chavarría, involved in the Adidas collaboration, has been criticized for appropriating the name of Oaxaca and not developing the design in a meaningful partnership with the Oaxacan community, as claimed.
- The controversy over Adidas' Oaxaca Slip-Ons sheds light on the economic significance of Indigenous cultural heritage in Mexico and the importance of fashion brands acknowledging and respecting its value in their designs, especially when it comes to travels and lifestyle choices of people around the world.
