Urban Outfitters was using the "Navajo" name on products without the Navajo Nation's permission. The goods weren't Indian produced either. Image from CULTURS
The Navajo Nation won a major decision in a dispute over the sales of unauthorized "Navajo" products.
In a seven-page decision, Judge Bruce Black cleared the way for the tribe to seek millions of dollars from Urban Outfitters. The fashion retailer marketed and sold products with the "Navajo" name as far back as 2008. The items were not produced by the tribe or its members and the tribe did not authorize the use of its name.
“We’re happy with the ruling and hope to resolve the matter expeditiously for the benefit of the Navajo people,” Paul Spruhan, an attorney for the tribe, told the Associated Press. The tribe filed the lawsuit in 2012. It alleges violations of trademark law and of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act, a truth-in-marketing law. Get the Story:Navajo Nation Victorious in Latest Round Against Urban Outfitters (The Fashion Law 4/4)
Tribe can seek potentially millions from Urban Outfitters (AP 4/1)
Judge Rejects Urban Outfitters Argument In Navajo Lawsuit (Fronteras 4/1)
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