New York – People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) announced Tuesday that it will seek a meeting with Steven Kolb, the long‑time chief executive of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), after a video surfaced showing Kolb physically restraining two protesters during a runway show for the brand Cos, owned by H&M.
Background to the incident
The footage, captured on Sunday, shows Kolb covering the mouth of Andrija Barak and holding her down with both arms and a leg as she attempted to disrupt the show with slogans against the use of wool. He is also seen restraining Mason Melito, another PETA employee who was filming the event. Both protesters were among six employees present; three were trying to disrupt the runway and three were documenting the show.
PETA’s response
Moira Colley, senior director of media relations for PETA’s New York chapter, said the organization originally intended to file a police report against Kolb. After consulting with attorneys, PETA changed course and decided to pursue a dialogue, hoping to persuade Kolb to support a broader ban on wool and animal skins in fashion. “We are willing to drop everything if we reach an understanding that benefits the animals,” Colley said in a phone interview.
Colley noted that Kolb previously helped secure a ban on fur at CFDA runway shows and expressed optimism that he would again “do the right thing” regarding wool and animal skins. Kolb has apologized for his actions, acknowledged that he restrained the protesters, and is currently on leave pending an investigation.
Industry implications
The meeting could signal a shift in the fashion industry’s approach to animal‑derived materials. While the CFDA has taken steps to reduce fur usage, wool and leather remain prevalent in many collections. PETA plans to present videos documenting the treatment of sheep used for wool production, aiming to persuade Kolb and the broader fashion community to adopt cruelty‑free alternatives.
Fashion insiders describe Kolb as a respected figure in New York’s fashion scene, having served as CFDA CEO since 2011. His potential endorsement of a wool‑free policy could influence designers nationwide, given the CFDA’s role as the industry’s primary trade organization.
Next steps
Kolb has agreed to meet with PETA, though a specific date has not yet been set. Both parties indicated a willingness to engage constructively, with PETA emphasizing its desire for an outcome that benefits animals and the fashion community alike.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
