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Urban Outfitters Removes "Navajo" From Site
Photo courtesy Urban Outfitters.
The "Navajo Flask" offered by Urban Outfitters.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. -- The word "Navajo" no longer appears on Urban Outfitters' website.
The trendy clothing chain has removed the word from numerous product names online in the wake of criticism from the Navajo Nation government and others.
As recently as last week, Urban Outfitters used "Navajo'' in more than 20 product names on its website. Two items in particular stirred up controversy: The "Navajo Hipster Panty'' and the "Navajo Print Fabric Wrapped Flask.''
Tribal members and bloggers called the products disrespectful, while tribal officials said they violated trademarks.
The products now are described on the store's site as "printed" instead of "Navajo.''
Urban Outfitters spokesman Ed Looram confirmed that the clothing chain received a cease-and-desist letter from the Navajo tribe a week ago. He declined to comment further.
The tribe holds trademarks on the Navajo name that cover clothing, footwear, online retail sales and textiles. The tribe's Justice Department had said it hoped Urban Outfitters would adopt another name.
