Adidas, Designer Apologize for Oaxaca Indigenous Shoe Appropriation

Adidas and Mexican-American designer Willy Chavarría have publicly apologized following accusations of cultural appropriation for their "Oaxaca Slip-On" shoe, which was inspired by the traditional huarache sandals of the Indigenous Zapotec community in Villa Hidalgo Yalálag, Oaxaca. The shoe was produced without consultation or credit to the original artisans, prompting condemnation from Mexican officials, including President Claudia Sheinbaum, who called for legal protections to prevent exploitation of Indigenous cultural heritage. Both Adidas and Chavarría expressed regret and committed to engaging in respectful dialogue with the affected community to honor their cultural legacy and discuss restitution. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions in Mexico over unauthorized commercial use of Indigenous designs, with the government having passed legislation to protect Indigenous intellectual and cultural property. Critics emphasized the economic and cultural significance of traditional shoemaking in Oaxaca, and denounced the Adidas design as a commodification that disregards the craftsmanship and meaning behind the original huaraches. This incident follows similar disputes involving other global brands, underscoring the need for ethical collaboration with Indigenous communities in design work.