German sportswear manufacturer Adidas has issued a formal apology after being accused of cultural appropriation in the design of its new "Oaxaca Slip-On" sandal.
The sandals, created by American designer Willy Chavarria, were inspired by the traditional "huarache" sandals worn by the indigenous people of Villa Hidalgo Yalalag village in the Mexican state of Oaxaca, who had nothing to do with their production.
According to a VNA correspondent in Germany, on August 11, the Bavaria-based sportswear company said in a statement: "Adidas respects the cultural richness of Mexico's indigenous communities and the importance of their artisanal heritage. The Oaxaca Slip-On was inspired by a design in Oaxaca, rooted in the traditions of Villa Hidalgo Yalalag. We publicly apologize and reaffirm our commitment to working with Yalalag in a respectful dialogue that honors their cultural heritage."
The issue has become so widespread that Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has described the shoe design as “inappropriate cultural appropriation,” criticizing: “Big companies are taking products, ideas, and designs from the indigenous communities of our country. That's intellectual property.”
Oaxaca state governor Salomon Jara said on social media that "the Yalalag huaraches are part of our cultural heritage, a tradition passed down from generation to generation and a reflection of the identity of this community," adding: "This heritage is one of our greatest treasures, and we will not allow it to be treated as a commodity."
Source: https://www.vietnamplus.vn/adidas-xin-loi-vi-thiet-ke-dep-bi-cao-buoc-chiem-doat-van-hoa-mexico-post1055094.vnp
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