July 3, 2019

Anna Murray 

Sports company Nike declared to stop selling the sneaker with a flag logo but received great criticism from GOP (Grand Old Party, the Republican Party) Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on July 2.

The shoe, carrying an emblem of a revolutionary-era US flag with 13 white stars in a circle on the heel, was designed to sell on July 4 and celebrate the national holiday as well. However, former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick complained that such a logo symbolized racism and slavery. 

A Nike spokesperson said in a statement that the distribution of the Air Max 1 Quick Strike Fourth of July shoe is halted because Nike was afraid of unintentionally arousing dispute about racism.

Meanwhile, Senator McConnell encouraged on July 2, "I'll make the first order" if Nike withdraws from its decision and releases the limited edition or sells shoes with a new design featuring the same version of the flag.

In addition, Nike has faced backlash for its decision among conservatives, including Republican Governor Doug Ducey of Arizona. On July 2 Governor Ducey condemned the company canceled the sneaker and ordered the state's Commerce Authority to withdraw a financial incentive package, a grant of up to US$1 million, for Nike to build a new company.

Photo:Webshot.