#BDS: Using Sports to Whitewash Israeli Crimes: Adidas – Don’t Run With Apartheid

"On 8 January 2011, London BDS activists kicked off the Adidas – Don’t Run With Apartheid campaign at the Adidas store near Covent Garden regarding the company’s sponsorship of the first-ever Jerusalem Marathon due to take place on 25 March 2011.

BDS activists spoke with the manager, explained the reasons behind the campaign and presented a letter to be forwarded to the UK and European head office. The manager accepted the letter and claimed that Adidas was aware of their concerns. Activists then distributed flyers directly outside the shop and talked to passersby and customers, asking them to urge Adidas to withdraw its sponsorship.

A few weeks later, this was Adidas’ reply:

Thank you for your recent letter regarding the Jerusalem Marathon.

Adidas is convinced by the unifying power sport offers. As a general rule we do not influence any political processes or event details.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for contacting the Adidas Group.

Yours sincerely

Lauren Cruse
Customer Care Manager
For and on behalf of Adidas (UK) Limited"

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