Patagonia is embroiled in a trademark infringement dispute with drag performer and climate activist Pattie Gonia (Wyn Wiley). Multiple outlets report that Patagonia filed a lawsuit claiming Gonia’s use of the name “Pattie Gonia” and related merchandise branding threatens Patagonia’s trademark rights and could confuse consumers. BBC News reports Patagonia also argues that Gonia breached an agreement not to use Patagonia branding in merchandise. In response, Gonia publicly criticizes the legal action, with some reporting she frames it as an attempt to “erase an activist.”
Several sources describe settlement discussions in which Patagonia proposes conditions to end the lawsuit, including demands related to stopping sales of merchandise. PinkNews reports Gonia rejects a proposed deal, saying one condition would undermine funding for her advocacy. Forbes and other outlets add context that Gonia sought trademark protection for her own name for clothing and marketing, which Patagonia views as encroaching on its brand. The dispute is ongoing, with reporting indicating it is headed toward trial if the parties do not reach agreement.
