Converse Apologized for an Ad That Invokes KKK Imagery
The Cut • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Converse apologized and removed a controversial ad featuring K-pop star Karina that appeared to evoke Ku Klux Klan and lynching imagery, acknowledging the image was deeply upsetting and a mistake.
- The ad showed a star logo projected onto Karina’s white skirt resembling a KKK hood, and sneakers held by her were perceived as resembling lynching victim’s feet, sparking consumer outrage.
- Louisiana Congressman Troy Carter condemned the ad for trivializing Black pain and racial violence, demanding accountability from Converse and Nike for the harmful imagery.
- Converse CEO Adam Cain addressed the controversy internally, promising a review of the company’s marketing approval process and the standards applied to their work.
- Despite the apology, many consumers remain upset, with some publicly burning Converse shoes and vowing to boycott the brand over the incident.
