# Converse apologizes for ads seen as evoking lynching

> Nike-owned Converse pulled ads after social media users compared imagery to Klan symbolism and lynching.
- Title: Converse apologizes for ads seen as evoking lynching · Adweek
- Summary: Nike-owned Converse pulled ads after social media users compared imagery to Klan symbolism and lynching. Brands must carefully review visual composition and…
- Keywords: converse, nike, advertising, social media backlash, karina aespa, chuck 70 x, brand apology, klan imagery, lynching, offensive advertising, palmes collaboration, apologizes
- Source: Adweek — https://adweek.com/brand-marketing/converse-roils-social-media-with-ads-that-evoke-a-lynching
- Author: Ryan Joe
- Published: 2026-09-18T22:57:06+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: converse, nike, advertising, social media backlash, karina aespa, chuck 70 x, brand apology, klan imagery, lynching, offensive advertising, palmes collaboration
## Converse faces social media uproar
The Nike-owned brand posted ads on Threads that some users said evoked Klan imagery and lynching. One featured K-pop star Karina in a spotlight shaped like Converse's star logo.
## The problematic Chuck 70 X ad
Posted September 3rd, the ad showed Karina standing in a spotlight with a bright white triangle on her skirt that resembled a Klansman's hood. Her long skirt and dangling shoes evoked lynching imagery to some viewers.

> That's a lynching, yes?
## A second ad draws scrutiny
A separate Converse ad released September 14th for a Palmes collaboration showed a man on a ladder holding sneakers overhead. Fitness creator Kida Maree compared it to Billie Holiday's 'Strange Fruit,' a song about lynching.

> There is NO REASON why WE should see an advertisement & immediately think of Strange Fruit by Billie Holiday.
## Converse issues formal apology
The brand removed the Karina ad and apologized: 'We're sorry. We understand why this image is deeply upsetting and recognize that we got this wrong.' Converse said it would remove the image everywhere it appeared.

> We're sorry. We understand why this image is deeply upsetting and recognize that we got this wrong.
## Some defend the ads as misunderstood
Culture writer Meecham Whitson Meriweather argued the outrage was overblown, noting the ad's caption explained the imagery: 'Under stage lights or streetlights, the star always finds the frame.'

> Like the caption tells you what is happening, what is being referenced.
## Part of a broader apology trend
Converse joins other brands recently apologizing for missteps: Pepsi for a Wild Cherry post, Neutrogena for old allegations, Target for an offensive Halloween costume, and Callaway Golf for a controversial collaboration ad.
## Key takeaway

Brands must carefully review visual composition and context in ads, as unintended imagery can spark backlash regardless of stated intent.