Users on various social media platforms have expressed their opinions about a controversial swimsuit brand selling a string bikini that they claim is in honor of American civil rights activist Rosa Parks. The brand in question, Divinoseas, is based in Miami, Florida, and came under fire for listing a two-piece bikini inspired by Parks with a description citing her name and her pivotal role in the civil rights movement of the 1960s. The swimsuit is available in both “light pink” and “seasalt” colors, sparking outrage and criticism from many online users who found it disrespectful to attach Parks’ name to a bikini.
Comments from social media users ranged from disbelief to anger at the perceived insensitivity of the brand, with some calling for donations to civil rights-related charities in order to justify the use of Parks’ name. Divinoseas also offers swimwear pieces honoring other historical figures such as Anne of Brittany, Rosalind Franklin, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Mae Mallory, further adding to the controversy surrounding the brand’s marketing choices. Despite the backlash, the brand has not issued a public statement in response to the criticism received.
Rosa Parks became a symbol of resistance against racial segregation when she famously refused to give up her bus seat to a White man in Montgomery, Alabama in 1955, leading to her arrest. This act of defiance sparked the Montgomery bus boycott, lasting over a year and contributing to the larger civil rights movements of the era. Parks’ legacy was honored posthumously with several prestigious awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal, recognizing her significant contribution to the fight for civil rights in the United States.
The controversial bikini top, named “Rosa,” features a triangle-cut design with ruching and string bow ties, priced at $90, while the matching bottoms have been marked down from $72 to $36. The product description emphasizes the intricate design details of the swimsuit, describing it as “seductive yet stately gravitas.” Despite the negative reactions on social media, the bikini top has sold out in all sizes, while the bottoms are only available in size large according to the company’s website.
While the majority of responses to the swimsuit have been critical, one individual defended the brand’s business practices by highlighting their mission to create employment opportunities for women in Guatemala. Divinoseas aims to empower women with low resources in Guatemala through skilled embroidery work, emphasizing the handmade nature of their products. The brand’s mission statement focuses on helping individuals fulfill their dreams and spreading positivity through their work, echoing the sentiment of Gandhi’s belief in shaking the world in a gentle but impactful way.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding Divinoseas’ swimsuit honoring Rosa Parks reflects a larger conversation about the intersection of activism, marketing, and social responsibility in the fashion industry. As consumers continue to demand accountability from brands, it is essential for companies to consider the implications of their marketing strategies and ensure that their actions align with their values and commitment to social justice.
