Adidas designer sorry for shoes 'appropriated' from Mexico

Willy Chavarria, a well-known US fashion designer, recently collaborated with Adidas Originals to create a new shoe called the Oaxaca Slip-On. This shoe was inspired by huaraches, which are traditional leather sandals made by Indigenous artisans in Mexico. However, the release of the shoe sparked controversy because it was produced in China and neither Chavarria nor Adidas consulted or credited the Mexican communities who originally designed the huaraches. Many people, including Mexico's president Claudia Sheinbaum, criticized the shoe for cultural appropriation, which means taking ideas, customs, or designs from another group without proper acknowledgment or respect.

Chavarria issued a public apology, saying he was deeply sorry for not working directly with the Oaxacan community. He explained that his intention was to honor the rich culture and artistic spirit of Oaxaca, a region that has inspired him greatly. He admitted that by not collaborating with the community, he fell short of showing the respect they deserve. Chavarria emphasized that true respect and love for a culture must be shown through actions, not just words. Adidas responded by removing promotional images of the shoe from their social media accounts and Chavarria's accounts as well. The company also reached out to Oaxacan officials to discuss how to make restitution to the people whose designs were used without permission.

Mexico's deputy culture minister, Marina Nunez, said that Adidas had contacted local officials to talk about how to repair the damage caused by the shoe's release. The company reportedly sent a letter to Mexican authorities, stating that it values the cultural wealth of Mexico's Indigenous people and recognizes the importance of the criticisms. Adidas requested a meeting to discuss how to support the affected communities. The Mexican government is also looking into legal ways to help Indigenous groups who have had their designs taken by big companies.

This incident highlights the importance of respecting and collaborating with the communities whose cultural elements are being used in fashion and other industries. Cultural appropriation can cause harm by making people feel ignored or disrespected, especially when their traditions are used without permission or credit. The story of the Oaxaca Slip-On serves as a reminder that designers and companies should always work with and honor the people behind the original ideas. Apologies are important, but real change comes from taking action to make things right and build meaningful partnerships.