Patagonia has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against environmentalist drag performer Pattie Gonia, seeking $1 in damages plus legal fees. The outdoor clothing company claims the activist's use of the name 'Pattie Gonia' for selling merchandise and promoting environmental causes could irreparably harm its brand.
Wyn Wiley, who performs as Pattie Gonia, has built a large online following through environmental activism, raising nearly $4 million for non-profits. In 2024, they raised $1 million by hiking 100 miles in full drag. Patagonia filed the suit on 21 January in federal court in Los Angeles after Wiley applied to trademark 'Pattie Gonia' for clothing and advocacy.
Patagonia stated it tried to resolve the issue amicably for several years but felt legal action was necessary to protect its intellectual property. 'We want Pattie to have a long and successful career, but in a way that respects Patagonia’s brand,' the company said.
Wiley responded publicly on Instagram, calling the lawsuit a betrayal of Patagonia’s mission. 'This is a corporation trying to erase an activist,' they said, noting that the legal fees to defend their name would be substantial. Wiley acknowledged some merchandise involved parody of Patagonia but denied using its logo or font.
Patagonia’s social media has faced backlash from Pattie Gonia supporters urging the company to drop the case. The company reiterated that it is not seeking financial gain and respects advocacy, but must protect its business. Patagonia was founded by Yvon Chouinard, who gave the company to a trust in 2022 to direct profits toward environmental causes.
