CFDA CEO Steps Down Following NY Fashion Week Altercation
Steven Kolb has resigned as CEO and president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) following an incident involving animal rights activists at New York fashion week. Kolb’s departure comes after a video surfaced showing him physically restraining two protesters from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) during a COS brand show on Sunday.
Kolb announced his resignation, remarking on the pride he feels for his 20-year tenure leading the CFDA and stating it is the appropriate time for both himself and the organisation to move forward. Kolb had been placed on leave as the incident was under review, pending his subsequent resignation.
The altercation took place when PETA activists attempted to demonstrate against H&M’s use of wool, with Kolb intervening by pushing one protester, Mason Melito, and covering his mouth. He also wrestled another protester to the ground, using both arms and a leg to hold her down and placed his hand over her mouth. Melito later described the encounter as frightening and criticised Kolb’s actions as unwarranted.
The CFDA, a non-profit entity that advocates for U.S. designers and coordinates the New York fashion week calendar, acknowledged Kolb’s decision to leave. The board, comprising renowned designers such as Ralph Lauren and Michael Kors, expressed respect and gratitude for Kolb’s extensive service and leadership, affirming the organisation’s robust positioning as they seek a new leader.
PETA USA commented on the incident, suggesting it could have been avoided if H&M CEO Daniel Ervér had acted on their demands to cease the use of wool. A meeting between PETA and industry leaders, including Kolb, is anticipated to discuss efforts to eliminate animal cruelty in the fashion industry.
The recent protest in New York was not an isolated event; a similar demonstration occurred on Thursday during London fashion week, when PETA activists disrupted an H&M show holding signs protesting the use of wool.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.