Converse pulls ad image reminiscent of the Ku Klux Klan and apologizes
The company announced that it has terminated the advertising campaign that drew major backlash on social media and was noted to resemble the image of a lynching victim.
American footwear brand Converse has withdrawn an advertising image that received intense criticism on social media for evoking Ku Klux Klan imagery and the image of a lynching victim, and issued a public apology.
Severe Criticism Directed at the Ad
American footwear brand Converse became the target of criticism due to an advertising image that social media users stated evoked Ku Klux Klan imagery. The lighting in the photo shared on the company's Instagram account was compared to a white, pointed hood.
Analogy to a Lynching Victim Draws Reaction
A pair of swinging shoes featured in the shared photo was likened by social media users to the image of a lynching victim. This situation triggered a major wave of backlash that rapidly resonated widely across the internet.
Official Apology from the Company
In an official apology statement released on Friday, Converse announced that the controversial photo had been removed from its social media channels. Company officials reported that efforts are ongoing to completely remove the visual from other platforms as well.
Campaign Details and Brand History
The controversial photo was part of a campaign promoting the Chuck 70 X sneakers, which were launched internationally on August 27. The brand, which has been operating under Nike since 2003, asked the public for forgiveness due to the mistake.