Oaxaca, Mexico – Adidas has responded to demands from the Zapotec community of Villa Hidalgo Yalálag, Oaxaca, regarding the alleged plagiarism of their traditional huarache designs, offering a virtual meeting to discuss reparations. The announcement comes after the community demanded the suspension of Adidas’ “Oaxaca Slip On” footwear line.
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Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, Head of Government of mexico City, stated that authorities are working to ensure the community receives appropriate compensation for the design appropriation. Adidas, in a statement released this week, expressed a “deep value” for the cultural wealth of Mexico’s native peoples and acknowledged the significance of the community’s concerns.
The company, represented by Karen González, requested a virtual meeting with representatives from Villa Hidalgo Yalálag to initiate a “constructive and respectful process” aimed at “damage repair” with the Zapotec community. Adidas emphasized its commitment to approaching the situation with “responsibility and openness,” guided by principles of respect,reciprocity,and recognition of creative communities and Cultural Heritage.
The dispute centers on Adidas’ “Oaxaca Slip On” shoe, which the community alleges directly copies the designs of traditionally hand-woven huaraches produced in Yalálag for generations. The community, comprised of approximately 600 artisans, relies heavily on huarache production as a primary source of income. The Assembly of Yalálag previously issued a formal demand for the immediate suspension of the footwear’s production and sale.
Adidas stated its willingness to listen to the perspectives of the Zapotec community and collaborate “towards an understanding that honors cultural traditions and establish bases for a constructive and respectful relationship.” The company did not specify a timeline for the proposed virtual meeting or details regarding potential reparations. The case highlights growing concerns about the appropriation of Indigenous designs by large corporations and the need for stronger protections of traditional cultural expressions.
Villa Hidalgo Yalálag is located in the Sierra Norte region of Oaxaca, a region known for its rich Indigenous cultures and artisanal traditions. The Zapotec people have a long history of weaving intricate designs into their huaraches, which are considered a important part of their cultural identity.
