CNBC AI News, August 12th – Adidas finds itself in hot water after the release of its “Oaxaca Slip-On” shoe. The design is facing accusations of cultural appropriation, with critics drawing strong parallels to the traditional Mexican “huarache” sandal.
The “Oaxaca Slip-On,” a collaboration with designer Chavarria, features woven leather detailing and a robust rubber sole.
The controversy stems from the shoe’s black woven upper, which bears a striking resemblance to the huarache, a traditional sandal handcrafted by Zapotec artisans in Oaxaca, Mexico. Detractors argue that Adidas simply swapped the traditional flat sole for a chunky, athletic one.
Mexican politicians, including President Claudia Sheinbaum, have publicly condemned Adidas’ design, accusing the company of “cultural appropriation” and demanding reparations for the artisans affected.
Sheinbaum indicated that Adidas is engaging with the Oaxaca state government to discuss “compensation for the artisans whose work was copied.” The government is simultaneously pushing for legislative reforms to better protect traditional crafts.
The stakes are high. Official data suggests that the artisanal crafts industry contributes roughly 10% to the GDP of states like Oaxaca and provides nearly half a million jobs nationwide.
Local artisans have lambasted the design as a “cheap imitation” of their heritage, lamenting, “We are losing the essence of art and tradition.”
Adidas and designer Chavarria have both issued apologies in response to the outcry.
Original article, Author: Tobias. If you wish to reprint this article, please indicate the source:https://aicnbc.com/7001.html
