Designer admits regret over Adidas allegedly taking inspiration from Mexican footwear without proper credit
In a recent development, Adidas has found itself at the centre of a controversy surrounding the appropriation of traditional Indigenous designs. The Oaxaca Slip-On sandals, a reinterpretation of huarache sandals unique to a specific area in Mexico with one of the highest Indigenous populations in the country, have sparked a heated debate.
Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum has denounced the use of the name "Oaxaca" without consent from the indigenous community of Villa Hidalgo Yalalág. Sheinbaum emphasized that the heritage law must be complied with, and she stated that the huarache sandals are collective intellectual property, implying that compensation is necessary.
The controversy surrounds Adidas' reinterpretation of a sandal design from Villa Hidalgo Yalalag, Mexico. Mexican-American designer Willy Chavarría, who is of Mexican heritage, expressed regret about the design appropriation. Chavarria acknowledged that the sandals did not live up to the respect and collaborative approach deserved by the community.
Adidas has contacted Oaxacan officials to discuss "restitution to the people who were plagiarized," but as of the latest reports, no agreement or compensation has been finalized, and legal proceedings are being considered. The Oaxaca state government is actively pursuing legal complaints, and there is no indication that resolution or compensation has yet been reached.
This is not the first time Adidas' sandals have been criticized for appropriating Indigenous designs. Previous complaints have been raised about fast fashion juggernaut Shein, Spain's Zara, and high-end label Carolina Herrera. This controversy is the latest instance of Mexican officials denouncing major brands or designers using unauthorized Indigenous art or designs from the region.
The statement about the sandals was sent to AFP (Agence France-Presse) on Friday. No specific details about the compensation amount or the timeline for the meeting were provided. However, it is clear that Adidas has not agreed to compensate the Oaxacan community for appropriating the design of the Oaxaca Slip-On sandals.
The controversy over Adidas' use of Indigenous designs has sparked a discussion about the importance of respecting cultural heritage in the fashion-and-beauty industry. This Danish-German multinational corporation, known for its involvement in various business sectors including sports fashion and lifestyle, now faces criticisms for inappropriately using traditional Oaxacan designs.
Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum and other Oaxacan officials are actively pursuing legal complaints, emphasizing the necessity of financial restitution to Indigenous communities affected by such appropriation. This incident highlights the need for greater awareness and ethical practices within the finance and business sphere when dealing with cultural artifacts and intellectual property rights.
