The global sportswear brand Adidas expressed regret to an Indigenous group in Mexico on Thursday for drawing inspiration from their traditional sandals for a new product, following criticism from officials and President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Local officials had expressed concerns that the Oaxaca Slip-On sandals were a “reimagined” version of huarache footwear, specifically a style that is unique to the region, which boasts one of the largest Indigenous communities in the country.
The Mexican government had earlier stated it was pursuing compensation from Adidas.
Karen Gonzalez, legal director of Adidas Mexico, acknowledged on Thursday that the footwear had “drawn inspiration from an original design” and extended the German company’s “public apology.”
She promised that Adidas would collaborate with the community, which depends on craftsmanship for its income, moving ahead.
The shoes were designed by American fashion designer Willy Chavarria, who has also expressed he “deeply” regrets the decision.
The debate is the most recent example of Mexican authorities criticizing large companies for using Indigenous art or patterns from the area, following earlier concerns about the fast fashion giant Shein, Spain’s Zara, and luxury brand Carolina Herrera.
“It is collective intellectual property. There needs to be payment. The heritage law should be followed,” Sheinbaum said to reporters about the sandals earlier this month.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).