New Delhi, Sept. 26 -- Converse informed employees that it is pausing all marketing activities this week following backlash over an earlier advertisement that critics said evoked imagery associated with the Ku Klux Klan and lynching.

This comes after Converse CEO Aaron Cain denouncing racism and issuing an apology for a recent advertisement that drew outrage over imagery seen as reminiscent of the Ku Klux Klan and lynching.

The temporary pause covers paid advertising, social media activity and other promotional efforts, according to Bloomberg citing person familiar with the decision who was not authorised to speak publicly.

The move comes as Converse attempts to reverse a prolonged sales decline, with the brand expected to post its 14t...