Under fascist ruler Francisco Franco Spain's flag looked different for their current one. Out of respect for the tens (some speculate hundreds) of thousands murdered and imprisoned during Franco's reign and symbols of his rule such as this flag are banned. This hasn't stopped American company Target from putting it on a t-shirt.
The t-shirt also carries the slogan, "Una, Grande Y Libre" ("One, Great and free"), Franco's slogan. The World Cup t-shirt is actually kid's apparel and part of a promotion for FIFA. It has since been taken off Target's website, but might still be for sale at stores. It will be a collector's item for sure.
Shocking Soccer Tees
An Inappropriate Spain World Cup T-Shirt From Target
Trend Themes
1. Inappropriate Fashion - There's an opportunity for innovative fashion companies to create apparel without insensitive or offensive designs.
2. Historical Censorship - There's an opportunity for companies to create a platform that curates and fact-checks historical information before it's published or merchandized.
3. Social Responsibility - There's an opportunity for companies to establish ethical guidelines and standards to lead social issues in an appropriate and respectful manner.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - The fashion industry needs to rethink its production processes and not use historical events, tragedies or any type of violence as an inspiration or its marketing campaigns.
2. Publishing - The publishing industry has the potential to create a new industry standard procedure to check facts and context for any merchandise that contains cultural, historical, or representation symbolism.
3. Social Media - Social media can take an active role in fighting against and identifying content or sharing information that is racist, offensive, or insensitive, using advanced tools and human knowledge.