Not everyone in the apparel business agrees with Nike, which dropped a new shoe design featuring an American flag as designed by Betsy Ross — prompted by a complaint from Colin Kaepernick, a Nike endorser and cultural activist.
Nine Line Apparel, a veteran-owned apparel company based in Georgia, is striking back with a new line of T-shirts which display the Betsy Ross flag with much flair and patriotism.
“Nike seeks profit through controversy, but with absolutely no regard for the consequences,” said retired Army Capt. Tyler Merritt, CEO of Nine Line.
“In its corporatist wake, it leaves behind anti-American sentiment and division, harming our country,” Mr. Merritt said. “But since Nike has no interest in displaying the Betsy Ross flag, a classic symbol of freedom and unity, then we proudly will.”
The new line of shirts for men and women will be available to the public July 12. In the meantime, Mr. Merritt is organizing a boycott of Nike and advises the public to display their patriotism by using the hashtag #NoToNike.
“How far Nike has fallen?” he said. “It was once an iconic American company. Now it can’t even stomach associating itself with one of the greatest moments in our country’s history, when individuals of diverse backgrounds put differences aside to fight tyranny and secure liberty.
“Nike says ’just do it.’ We say just stand for your beliefs and for your country,” Mr. Merritt said.
• Jennifer Harper can be reached at jharper@washingtontimes.com.
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