Mexico’s state of Oaxaca is threatening legal action against adidas and denounces shoe companies for cultural appropriation of newly launched shoes that resemble traditional handmade sandals.
“Oaxaca Slip-On” was billed as an original collaboration between American designers Willy Chavalia and Adidas, and features woven leather surfaces, open heels and thick rubber soles.
Oaxacan Governor Salomon Jala Cruz accused her of copying Yalarag’s designs on Wednesday without seeking permission or celebrating the community. He also called for Adidas to withdraw his shoes, engage in discussions with Indigenous communities, and publicly recognize Yararag as the founder of the design.
“This is not just about design, it is about the culture, history and identity of the original (people) and is not allowed to be treated as a product,” he said in a video posted to X.
He said he has pledged “legal support” for Villa Hidalgo Yaralagh and has already spoken with members of the community about taking action against the footwear company.
Adidas did not immediately respond to a CNN request for comments. Neither has issued an official statement addressing the controversy.
One option for the Oaxacan government is to file a formal complaint with Mexico’s federal government agency, Mexico’s Mexican government agency, the IMPI, to protect Mexico’s intellectual property.
An impeachment that supports and controls Oaxaca could prevent adidas from selling shoes in Mexico.
The shoes are not yet sold to the public, but images are widely available online.
Chabaria is known for incorporating Mexican-American identity into his fashion work. CNN reached out to him for comment.
The conflict adds to an increasing number of cases in Mexico, where indigenous communities accused international designers and brands of replicating work without permission.
In recent years, companies such as Zara, Anthropologie and Patowl have faced similar backlash against designs and motifs that are perceived to resemble traditional works.
In response, Mexico passed a law that punished the misuse of indigenous cultural expressions, with large fines and sentences.
