Adidas criticized for alleged cultural misappropriation in Mexican shoe design by fashion designer
In a recent development, Adidas and designer Willy Chavarria have found themselves embroiled in a controversy over the Oaxaca Slip-On sandals, accused of cultural appropriation. The sandals, which are a reinterpreted model of traditional huarache sandals, originate from the Indigenous community of Villa Hidalgo Yalalag in Oaxaca, Mexico.
Mexican authorities have announced their intention to seek compensation from Adidas, and local officials have demanded the withdrawal of the sandal model. The controversy has gained significant attention, with President Claudia Sheinbaum stating that the huarache sandal design is collective intellectual property and that compensation is required.
Adidas, in response, has expressed deep regret for the lack of a respectful and collaborative approach with the Oaxacan community. The company has indicated its willingness to meet and discuss reparations, suggesting potential for future collaboration or settlement. However, as of the latest reports, no definitive resolution or compensation package has been announced.
Designer Willy Chavarria, who is of Mexican heritage, has also publicly regretted the design appropriation. He acknowledged that the sandals were not developed in direct and meaningful partnership with the Oaxacan community.
This controversy underscores broader concerns about fashion brands profiting from Indigenous cultural expressions without proper credit or benefit-sharing. In recent years, similar complaints have been raised about fast fashion juggernaut Shein, Spain's Zara, and high-end label Carolina Herrera.
The unique huarache sandal design found in the area is particularly significant in Oaxaca, which has one of the highest Indigenous populations in the country. The Mexican government's stance on the issue indicates a broader concern for the protection and compensation of Indigenous cultural property.
The statement from President Sheinbaum marks a significant escalation in the dispute between Adidas and the Mexican government. It highlights the ongoing issue of cultural appropriation in the fashion industry, particularly in relation to Indigenous designs from Mexico.
As negotiations continue, the hope remains that Adidas will take meaningful steps to address the concerns raised and work towards a more collaborative and respectful approach in the future.
- This controversy in the fashion industry, centering around Adidas and the Oaxaca Slip-On sandals, has extended to the political sphere, with President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico asserting that the huarache sandal design is collective intellectual property and demanding compensation.
- The fashion-and-beauty sector has faced intense scrutiny for profiting from Indigenous cultural expressions without proper credit or benefit-sharing, as exemplified by the current drama surrounding Adidas and the controversy over their Oaxaca Slip-On sandals, with similar complaints previously levied against brands like Shein, Zara, and Carolina Herrera.
