It is sometimes NOT understandable how global corporations manage to get themselves embroiled in trade-linked furores – especially on religion, gender, race and even nationality.
One would think that these outfits knowing their reach will painstakingly do all it takes to avoid such crisis of offending sensibilities if for nothing at all, to continue doing their business with the global public in peace.
Reasons for landing in such ‘minefields’ include a failed public relations move or even a deliberate scheme to offend and subsequently apologize – whiles at it milking the press attention.
The latest I have come across is of how Nike, the US-sportswear manufacturer, is accused of Islamic desecration because of how its logo for a new footwear is crafted.
I so disagree with persons advancing the claim that Nike had set out to offend Muslim sensibilities with its logo for the Air Max footwear.
The claimants say if turned a certain way, the logo depicts the name of God, Allah, as is spelled in Arabic. They are further incensed that it is located under the sole of the footwear and thus Allah’s name will be trampled, dirtied etc.
For the records, the logo if read as expected will read AirMax, with the “r” and “m” merged somewhat - picture 1. Why then will anyone decide to read the logo upside down and take offense? - picture 2, where the circled portion resembles the Arabic writing for the term "Allah" - i.e. God.
In any case, the spelling of AIRMAX on the side of the shoe is in capital letters and doesn’t give any cause for outrage because it doesn’t give room for interpretation and wild conjecture.
Nike has in a statement stressed that at no point did it set out to violate any sensibilities and that it respects all religions and takes such concerns seriously.
“The Air Max logo was designed to be a stylized representation of Nike’s Air Max trademark. It is intended to reflect the Air Max brand only. Any other perceived meaning or representation is unintentional,” a spokesperson said.
There is currently an online petition calling for Nike to withdraw the product with international news outlets leveraging on the tendency to attract readers perhaps.
I’m Muslim and I believe we must learn to stay clear of suspicions as taught by the Quran and our blessed prophet. Nike doesn’t force anyone to buy their stuff, it’s a free market.
To those still trumpeting the boycott calls: just as Nike’s logo says “Just Do It,” I want to modify that in my message to them, “Just Stop It!” To y’all that love Nike, keep going – it’s 100% halal.
All praise is due to Allah! May the peace of Allah be on our blessed prophet, members of his household and all who continue on his path till the last day. Ameen.
Jumadal Uulaa 24, 1440 = January 30, 2019
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