Patagonia files trademark lawsuit against drag queen Pattie Gonia
The Story
Patagonia has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Wyn Wiley, who performs as environmental activist drag queen Pattie Gonia, seeking $1 in damages plus legal fees. The suit, filed January 21 in federal court in Los Angeles, follows Wiley’s September trademark application to use the name Pattie Gonia for clothing and environmental advocacy. Wiley responded publicly on Wednesday, calling the legal action a betrayal and asking Patagonia’s board to drop the case.
Key Facts
- Patagonia filed the lawsuit against Wyn Wiley (Pattie Gonia) on January 21 in federal court in Los Angeles.
- The company is seeking “nominal” $1 in damages plus legal fees.
- Wiley filed a trademark application in September to use the brand Pattie Gonia to sell clothing and promote environmental activism.
- Patagonia said it actively engaged with Wiley for several years to avoid litigation but could not reach an agreement.
- Wiley responded on Wednesday via an Instagram video and a letter to Patagonia’s board, asking the company to drop the lawsuit.
- Wiley stated: “This is a betrayal of Patagonia’s core mission. Because if they’re ‘in business to save the home planet’, why are they suing a climate activist?”
- Wiley acknowledged their merchandise involved “playful parody” of Patagonia but denied using its branding, logo or font.
- Patagonia’s social media has received thousands of comments from Pattie Gonia fans urging the company to drop the suit.
Conflicting Reports
The article includes conflicting accounts: Patagonia says it tried to avoid the lawsuit through multiple proposals and dialogue, while Wiley characterizes the suit as a corporation trying to “erase an activist” and a betrayal of Patagonia’s mission.
Still Unclear
- What specific proposals Patagonia made to Wiley during their discussions.
- Whether Wiley’s trademark application included any direct use of Patagonia’s logo or branding beyond parody.
Misconceptions
No widespread misconceptions addressed in the source article.
Key Figures
- Wyn Wiley (performer known as Pattie Gonia)
- Patagonia (outdoor clothing company)
- Yvon Chouinard (Patagonia founder, mentioned in background)
Sources: The Guardian
