US designer Willy Chavarria has issued an apology for the Oaxaca Slip-On, a shoe inspired by traditional Mexican huaraches, amidst accusations of cultural appropriation. The footwear, created in collaboration with Adidas, was criticized for lacking proper engagement with Indigenous communities in Mexico.
Adidas Designer Apologizes for Cultural Appropriation Controversy Over Shoe Design
Adidas Designer Apologizes for Cultural Appropriation Controversy Over Shoe Design
Willy Chavarria expresses regret after backlash for the Oaxaca Slip-On shoe that drew criticism for appropriation of Indigenous designs.
US fashion designer Willy Chavarria has come forward with an apology following widespread criticism over his collaboration with Adidas Originals, which resulted in the release of a shoe called the Oaxaca Slip-On. The design was meant to honor traditional leather sandals known as huaraches, crafted by Indigenous artisans in Mexico. However, it drew ire for being produced in China without consulting or crediting the original creators.
In a statement to the BBC, Chavarria expressed his regret: "I am deeply sorry that the shoe was appropriated in this design and not developed in direct and meaningful partnership with the Oaxacan community." The backlash gained traction when Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum voiced her disapproval, noting how large corporations often exploit Indigenous creations without acknowledgment.
It was highlighted that Adidas had reached out to Oaxacan officials regarding potential restitution for the affected communities, as shared by Marina Nunez, Mexico's deputy culture minister. This comes as decorative promotional images of the shoe were quickly removed from both Adidas and Chavarria's social media platforms.
Chavarria, while addressing the controversy, emphasized his intentions were rooted in respect for Oaxaca's cultural heritage and its resilient community. "The name Oaxaca is not just a word—its living culture, its people, and its history," he underscored, while also acknowledging the need for collaborative efforts with the Zapotec community of Villa Hidalgo Yalalag.
Although Adidas has yet to provide an official statement, recent reports state that the company has acknowledged the critiques it has received, expressing a desire to meet with Indigenous leaders to discuss how to "repair the damage" caused by the oversight. Chavarria ultimately recognized that genuine love for a culture is earned through meaningful action rather than mere representation.
