On Monday, Adidas asked the US Patent and Trademark Office to dismiss a recent filing from the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation (BLMGNF) to trademark a three-stripe logo, but the brand has now rescinded its request. The news of the withdrawl was first reported by Reuters today.
“Adidas will withdraw its opposition to the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation’s trademark application as soon as possible,” the company said in a statement to Reuters.
Adidas has been using its now-famous Three-Stripes mark since 1952, which has since appeared on various products from the sportswear brand, including apparel, footwear, and accessories. BLMGNF applied for a trademark in November 2020, which would’ve allowed them to add a yellow three-stripe design to their products ranging from clothing, bags, bracelets, mugs, and more. Adidas on Monday attempted to stop BLMGNF from trademarking the logo after stating that the design would cause confusion with its own iconic Three-Stripes branding.
According to Reuters, a close source at Adidas said the company’s decision to withdraw its filing to block BLMGNF’s trademark application was due to concerns that individuals could misinterpret “Adidas’ trademark objection as criticism of Black Lives Matter’s mission.”
BLMGNF was founded by three female activists in 2013 following the acquittal of Trayvon Martin’s murderer. According to its website, its mission is to “eradicate white supremacy and build local power to intervene in violence inflicted on Black communities by the state and vigilantes.”
At the time of publication, Adidas has not publicly addressed its decision to withdraw its application on BLMGNF’s trademark filing. The sportswear company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
