On Nov 14, Attack on Titan production committee revealed a new product dubbed “Marley’s Armband”, but, just after 1 day of the announcement, the product was cancelled.
Marley’s Armband merch was priced at 5,500 yen ($50 US), and the order period was meant to be open on November 15 to December 3rd. After 1 day, the manufacturing committee understood that this product could be a mistake, as it is basically racial prejudice.
In case you don’t know, In Attack on Titan series, armbands are worn by Eldian race residing in Marley. These armbands were employed to racially differentiate Eldian people from the rest of the world.
On Nov 15, the Armband product was discontinued, and the Attack on Titan production committee publicly apologized. Here is what they stated in public apology:
“The armbands that are being created, reproduces the character attire of Attack on Titan characters. However, these symbols are racial prejudice and ethnic discrimination. We understand that it was a lack of thought that this product was quickly marketed. We are terribly sorry.
The Attack on Titan production committee does not want to recognise any prejudice. Therefore, we will cancel all the orders and sales of the product. Everyone, who has already applied to items, we profoundly sorry. In the future, we will be extra careful”
