Adidas withdraws opposition to Black Lives Matter trademark application

Adidas, the multinational corporation known for its sportswear and accessories, has withdrawn its opposition to the trademark application of the Black Lives Matter Foundation. This move comes after Adidas initially objected to the Foundation’s application featuring a design with three parallel stripes.

A Brief Background on Adidas and BLM

The Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, the most prominent entity in the decentralised Black Lives Matter movement, applied for a federal trademark in November 2020. The trademark featured a yellow three-stripe design on various products including clothing, bags, and mugs. However, Adidas filed an opposition to the trademark application due to concerns that it could cause confusion with its own famous three-stripe mark.

The initial Opposition by Adidas

Adidas filed its objections in March 2021, stating that the design could cause confusion with its own famous three-stripe mark. Adidas has been using its logo since 1952 and has filed over 90 lawsuits related to the three-stripe trademark since 2008.

Concerns over Misinterpretation

However, Adidas withdrew its opposition to the trademark application in less than 48 hours. The company rescinded its opposition due to concerns that it might be misinterpreted as criticism of Black Lives Matter’s mission. Adidas could still challenge the trademark on the same grounds in the future, but they withdrew their opposition without prejudice.

Financial Struggles for Adidas

Adidas’ decision also comes at a time when they are financially struggling after ending their partnership with Kanye West’s Yeezy shoe line and their collaboration with Beyonce’s Ivy Park clothing line. The loss of these collaborations has hit Adidas hard financially.

The Significance of BLM

The Black Lives Matter movement started as a protest against police violence against Black people over a decade ago. The movement gained global attention in 2020 after the murder of George Floyd, which led to worldwide protests against police brutality and racial injustice. The Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation is the most prominent entity in the decentralised Black Lives Matter movement.

Comment from Both Parties

The U.S Patent and Trademark Office has not commented on how quickly the Black Lives Matter trademark can be registered. Representatives from the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation did not immediately comment on Adidas’ decision to withdraw their opposition to the trademark application.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Adidas has withdrawn its opposition to the Black Lives Matter Foundation’s trademark application featuring a design with three parallel stripes due to concerns of misinterpretation. Even though Adidas could still challenge the trademark on the same grounds in the future, this decision marks a significant shift for one of the biggest sportswear companies supporting social justice movements globally.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons