**Native American Activists Condemn Fashion Industry’s Unauthorized Use of Indigenous Motifs**.
The fashion world has long been captivated by the vibrant and distinctive cultural motifs of Native American nations. However, this fascination has often manifested as cultural appropriation, with high-end designers borrowing these designs without consent or proper attribution..
**A History of Cultural Exploitation**.
The appropriation of Native American designs has a long and painful history. In the 19th century, European settlers and traders began using Native American patterns and symbols without authorization, often for commercial gain. This trend continued throughout the 20th century, with fashion designers incorporating indigenous motifs into their collections without acknowledging their origins..
**Contemporary Examples of Appropriation**.
In recent years, the fashion industry has seen a resurgence of Native American-inspired designs. However, many of these creations have been met with criticism from Native American activists and organizations..
In 2019, Prada faced backlash for a collection that featured a Navajo-inspired sweater. The company was accused of cultural insensitivity and profiting from the work of Native American artists without any compensation..
Similarly, Victoria’s Secret was criticized for a .
