Prada reaches settlement with NYC over ‘racist iconography’ in window display
The New York City Commission on Human Rights reached a settlement with Prada USA over a merchandise display that the Commission said used “racist iconography.”
The window display was featured at a Prada store in downtown Manhattan in December 2018... [T]he display included monkey figurines that the Commission said evoked images of Sambo, a racist caricature used to dehumanize black people.
As part of the settlement, announced Wednesday by the Commission, Prada will have to invest in efforts that combat racism and promote diversity and inclusion.
The retailer must require all of its New York employees and Milan executives to complete racial equity training. It will also establish a scholarship program for students from backgrounds historically underrepresented in fashion. Prada must hire an executive-level diversity and inclusion officer, as well.
“The measures Prada has committed to have far-reaching implications for the fashion industry as a whole,” said Sapna V. Raj, deputy commissioner of the law enforcement bureau of the New York City Commission on Human Rights, in a press release.
“We share the New York City Commission on Human Rights’ commitment to ensuring that diverse perspectives are represented and respected,” the spokesperson said. “We are pleased that our diversity and inclusion initiatives are aligned with their vision for a more equitable, inclusive industry.” ...