The sacred Sufi emblem of M.T.O. Shahmaghsoudi School of Islamic Sufism, a 1400 year old school, includes both sacred Quranic texts and also symbolizes an open heart, harmony, peace, love and unity.
However Roberto Cavalli – in his “Just Cavalli” fashion line – suggests it symbolizes a “snake bite”, reflecting Original Sin. This diametrically opposes the reality of the emblem’s true meaning and purpose.
With the emblem being near and dear to the students’ hearts, Cavalli’s misappropriation has created an enormous uproar in the Sufi community.
This has led to global demonstrations against Roberto Cavalli’s unauthorized and unethical misuse of their internationally trademarked religious emblem.
Demonstrations have been held in Dallas, London, Los Angeles, New York, Washington, DC and Dusseldorf. Other demonstrations are planned for Houston, Orange County, Paris, Chicago and Vancouver within the coming month alone.
Aptly analogized by a student as a painting originally created by and signed by a member of one’s family, symbolizing “life”; the painting is thereafter stolen, with the thief claiming to be the true creator of this artwork.