Skateboarding brand Vans is facing a boycott in Hong Kong after it removed a shoe alluding to the city's anti-government protests from a sneaker design competition
"As a brand that is open to everyone, we have never taken a political position and therefore review designs to ensure they are in line with our company's long-held values of respect and tolerance, as well as with our clearly communicated guidelines for this competition," the statement said, without referring specifically to the protest-themed design.
The statement drew condemnation on social media from Hong Kong protest supporters, where a number of posts were accompanied by the hashtag #boycottVans. Some users implied that the decision contradicted Vans' history and identity as a skateboarding brand rooted in youthful rebellion, while others created satirical posters that changed the brand's slogan,"Off the Wall," to insteadHong Kong and Beijing have long had a fraught relationship.
Sneaker chain Dahood, which operates several Vans franchise stores in Hong Kong, announced Sunday that it was suspending operations at three locations because of"the controversy caused by the Custom Culture design contest." The widespread anti-government protests, which began in June over a since-withdrawn extradition bill, have grown increasingly violent in recent weeks. Friday night saw a second protester shot with a firearm during clashes between protesters and police officers.with a taxi cab and was subsequently beaten bloody by a mob.
Vans joins a growing list of companies that have faced criticism from Hong Kong and Chinese consumers for taking perceived stances on the protests. Over the weekend, protesters attacked and
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Hong Kong reopens part of metro but braces for more protestsHong Kong's rail operator reopened part of its metro system on Sunday after...
Read more »
Violent protests continue in Hong Kong after anti-mask law comes into effectPro-democracy lawmaker, Claudia Mo, says 'the Chief Executive has no power to enact regulations in the manner she has.'
Read more »
Hong Kong suspends trains as rallies resume after 'dark day'Banks and shops were also closed Saturday after another night of rampaging violence decried as 'a very dark day' by Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam.
Read more »
After a night of rioting, Lam calls on Hong Kong residents to condemn violenceA day after violent protests rocked Hong Kong, its embattled leader called on citizens Saturday to condemn violence and reject the rioters. In a video statement released Saturday afternoon local time, Chief Executive Carrie Lam slammed Friday night's violence, which was prompted in part by a ban
Read more »
After a night of rioting, Lam calls on Hong Kong residents to condemn violenceA day after violent protests rocked Hong Kong, its embattled leader called on citizens Saturday to condemn violence and reject the rioters.
Read more »