The Congressional Black Caucus has asked to meet with Nike after a Converse ad drew criticism for evoking KKK and lynching imagery. The social-media post showed K-pop star Karina in a long white skirt holding black Chuck 70 X sneakers, which many found deeply insensitive. Caucus Chair Rep. Yvette D. Clarke framed the controversy as a broader issue of corporate responsibility; Nike has not yet commented.
Black Lawmakers Seek Meeting With Nike After Converse Ad Draws Outrage Over KKK-Like Imagery
The Congressional Black Caucus has requested a meeting with Nike executives to address a recent Converse advertisement that critics say evoked imagery associated with the Ku Klux Klan and lynching.
With 62 members of Congress gathered to celebrate Black excellence, honor the contributions of those who came before us, and invest in the next generation of Black leaders — including the young interns joining us — it was particularly disheartening to see an advertisement that many found deeply insensitive.
— Rep. Yvette D. Clarke (D-N.Y.), Caucus Chair
The ad, shared on social media last week, featured K-pop singer Karina wearing a long white skirt while holding a pair of black Chuck 70 X sneakers. Many observers argued that the styling and framing closely resembled a KKK hood or the appearance of a lynching victim, prompting widespread criticism online and calls for accountability.
Clarke described the incident as part of a larger conversation about corporate responsibility, saying companies must recognize that their decisions, messaging and investments carry particular significance when they intersect with communities whose history and contributions have helped shape a brand's success.
Nike, which owns Converse, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Congressional Black Caucus has asked for a meeting to discuss the ad and explore potential remedies, including public explanation, apology, or changes to creative review processes.
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