Clothing/Cosmetics and Animal Abuse Article from All-Creatures.org

Adidas and the Controversy Over Kangaroo Leather

From Ed Boks / Animal Politics
September 2024

Jackie Joyner-Kersee's recent appointment to Adidas's board of directors brings her into the spotlight of a different kind of race—one involving ethical considerations in business practices. Given her reputation for integrity and leadership, many hope she will leverage her position to advocate for more humane and sustainable practices within the company, aligning with the values she has championed throughout her career.

Center for a Humane Economy hopes to enroll Jackie Joyner-Kersee in the Kangaroos Are Not Shoes campaign.

Adidas, a global leader in athletic footwear, has faced increasing scrutiny for its use of kangaroo leather in soccer shoes. This practice, which has persisted for decades, involves sourcing leather from kangaroos hunted in their native Australian habitats. While many major athletic brands have moved away from using kangaroo leather, Adidas remains one of the few still offering such products, drawing criticism from animal welfare advocates worldwide.

The Ethical Debate

The use of kangaroo leather, often referred to as "k-leather," has sparked a significant ethical debate. Animal rights organizations argue that the commercial hunting of kangaroos is inhumane and unnecessary, highlighting the brutal methods often employed in the process. These groups emphasize that alternatives to kangaroo leather are readily available and that continuing this practice is both environmentally and ethically irresponsible.

Jackie Joyner-Kersee: A Legacy of Excellence and Influence

Jackie Joyner-Kersee is celebrated as one of the greatest athletes in history, renowned for her exceptional achievements in track and field. A six-time Olympic medalist, Joyner-Kersee's prowess in the heptathlon and long jump has earned her a lasting legacy in sports. Her dedication and resilience have inspired countless individuals, making her a respected figure both on and off the field.

Beyond her athletic accomplishments, Joyner-Kersee is known for her philanthropic efforts. She has been actively involved in community initiatives, focusing on youth development and education. Her influence extends beyond sports, as she is seen as a role model for aspiring athletes and advocates for positive change.

Her recent appointment to Adidas's board of directors brings her into the spotlight of a different kind of race—one involving ethical considerations in business practices. Given her reputation for integrity and leadership, many hope she will leverage her position to advocate for more humane and sustainable practices within the company, aligning with the values she has championed throughout her career.

Potential Shift in Adidas's Policy

Recent developments suggest a possible change in Adidas's approach to using kangaroo leather. At the company's annual board meeting in May, CEO Bjorn Gulden hinted at plans to discontinue the use of this controversial material. This potential shift aligns with growing consumer demand for ethical products and could signify a major step forward for animal welfare.

With Jackie Joyner-Kersee on the board, there is hope that her influence will encourage Adidas to formalize this decision. Her leadership and public stature could be pivotal in prompting the company to announce a definitive end to the use of kangaroo leather. This move would not only enhance Adidas's reputation but also contribute significantly to the protection of kangaroos.

The Call for Change

Critics argue that Adidas's continued use of kangaroo leather is not only a reputational risk but also a missed opportunity to lead in sustainable and ethical manufacturing. There is a growing call for Adidas to join other brands in eliminating the use of animal products that contribute to wildlife exploitation.

Adidas's persistence in using kangaroo leather places it at odds with a shifting industry trend towards ethical and sustainable practices. As public awareness and demand for cruelty-free products rise, the pressure mounts on Adidas to reconsider its stance and align with a more compassionate approach to production.

Call to Action: Stand Against Kangaroo Slaughter

If you would like to take a more active role in ending the commercial killing of kangaroos for athletic footwear, consider joining the "Kangaroos Are Not Shoes" campaign sponsored by the Center for a Humane Economy. Despite the availability of synthetic alternatives, Adidas continues to use kangaroo leather, contributing to the annual slaughter of millions of these iconic animals.

By supporting this campaign, you can help push for legislative changes to ban the import and sale of kangaroo parts in the U.S. and encourage Adidas to adopt more ethical practices. Your involvement can make a difference in protecting kangaroos and promoting cruelty-free products.

Visit the Center for a Humane Economy to learn more and contribute to this vital cause. Together, we can advocate for change and ensure that kangaroos are no longer at risk for the sake of fashion.

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Ed Boks is a former Executive Director of the New York City, Los Angeles, and Maricopa County Animal Care & Control Departments. His work has been published in the LA Times, New York Times, Newsweek, Real Clear Policy, Sentient Media, and now on Animal Politics with Ed Boks. He is available for consultations at [email protected]. 

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Posted on All-Creatures.org: September 10, 2024
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