Steven Kolb, the longtime chief executive of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, is taking a leave of job pending an investigation after he was filmed physically restraining two People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals employees during a runway show in New York, according to PETA senior director of media relations Moira Colley.
The incident occurred Sunday during a runway show for Cos, a brand owned by H&M, when animal rights demonstrators emerged to protest the use of wool and animal skins in clothing. Video footage of the clash quickly drew widespread attention across the fashion world, capturing Kolb—who has worked at the fashion industry’s main trade organization for two decades and became CEO in 2011—forcibly restraining protesters Andrija Barak and Mason Melito.
The Runway Confrontation at the Cos Fashion Show
According to video footage of the Sunday event, Barak aimed to disrupt the runway show by calling out slogans regarding the use of wool. Kolb responded by covering her mouth with his hands and restraining her with both his arms and a leg over her body in an effort to keep the show moving forward, PETA stated. Separately, video showed Kolb pushing Melito and placing his hands over his mouth.
Colley reported that six PETA employees were present at the event in total. Three of those individuals aimed to disrupt the runway, including Barak, while three others focused on filming, including Melito.
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Steven Kolb has previously been involved in getting fur banned from runway shows on the Council of Fashion Designers of America schedule, an effort that animal rights representatives have acknowledged following the recent altercation.
PETA Shifts Course Toward Direct Talks with Kolb
Following the altercation, PETA initially planned to file a police report against Kolb. However, Colley stated that the group changed course after visiting police and consulting with attorneys, deciding instead to pursue a direct meeting with the fashion executive to discuss ending the use of wool and animal skins in clothing.
Kolb has agreed to meet with the organization, though a specific time has not yet been set, according to PETA. The animal rights group intends to show Kolb videos documenting how sheep are mistreated for their wool during their discussions. There was no immediate response Tuesday to a message sent to Kolb’s CFDA email address.
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Potential Outcomes and Next Steps
Colley stated in a phone interview that the group is willing to drop everything if they reach an understanding that benefits the animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Steven Kolb’s current job status?
Kolb is taking a leave from his job as chief executive of the Council of Fashion Designers of America pending an investigation.
Why did PETA alter its initial legal strategy?
PETA initially planned to file a police report against Kolb, but changed course after visiting police and consulting with attorneys to seek a direct meeting with him instead.
What organization hosted the runway show where the altercation took place?
The runway show was for Cos, a brand owned by H&M.
What steps do you think the fashion industry should take regarding animal products on the runway?
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