Monday, January 4, 2016

Navajo stand up against Urban Outfitters

Photo credit: Urban Outfitters website


I would like to say a few words on this lawsuit that continues into 2016.

Here I post a sample of the one such item (though there are several) of a flask sold buy this company. This particular item called a "Navajo" flask and is sold under this label. This company has produced other products such as underwear and various clothing items that not only appropriate the cultural imagery/ motifs of the Navajo Nation, but also use the term 'Navajo' to do so. 

In 2012 the Navajo tribe has sued the company to keep from using the term 'Navajo' in their products. Though many in American culture have made this lawsuit trivial, this topic is a serious issue. The Navajo Nation of people have been dealing with such issues since they (we) have been producing our tribal arts. This lawsuit in my opinion is a good move for the tribe, but also for other Indigenous tribal people in the Americas. This lawsuit tells those who are 'wannabes' and 'thieves,'  that the Indigenous cultural imagery and symbols and names are not for them or their use.

We Indigenous are stronger than ever in the 21st century, We will not be passive on issues of misappropriation or the theft of our cultural identity by American corporations.


I share the following article for your greater understanding.

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Urban Outfitters and the Navajo Nation Are Still Locked in a Legal Battle

story via Racked.com

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