New York City – The head of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), Steven Kolb, announced a voluntary leave of absence after video footage showed him physically restraining two animal‑rights activists during a COS runway show at New York Fashion Week on Sunday.
Incident on the runway
According to Reuters‑verified video, Kolb lunged at the protesters, pulling one activist to the ground and covering her mouth with his hand. The activists were demonstrating against COS’s use of sheep’s wool, a practice championed by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
Kolb’s response
Kolb posted an apology on his Instagram account, stating, “There is no justification for physically restraining another person. Security should have handled the situation, and I should have stepped back.” He added that he would meet with PETA to discuss the matter and that he was taking a voluntary leave from his duties at the CFDA.
Reactions from industry groups
The CFDA, which organizes New York Fashion Week, did not immediately comment on Kolb’s leave or the incident. PETA issued a statement calling the CEO’s actions “an example of how top people in fashion use violence to silence people” advocating for animal rights.
H&M’s position
H&M, the parent company of COS, released a statement saying the brand sources animal‑derived fibers only from certified farms and, where possible, from recycled sources. “We are deeply sorry about the incident that occurred in connection with our AW26 show on 13 September,” the spokesperson said. “We respect everyone’s right to express their views, and we believe everyone should be treated with care and respect.”
Impact on the fashion community
The episode has sparked a broader conversation within the fashion industry about protest handling and the treatment of animal‑rights activists. While some designers emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe runway environment, others warned that heavy‑handed responses could alienate a growing segment of consumers who prioritize ethical sourcing.
Industry observers note that the incident arrives at a time when major brands are under increasing pressure to adopt more sustainable and cruelty‑free practices. The CFDA’s upcoming schedule includes several high‑profile shows, and the organization has pledged to review its security protocols to prevent similar occurrences.
What’s next?
Kolb’s leave is described as voluntary, and no formal disciplinary action has been announced. The CFDA has indicated it will work with its members to ensure that future events balance security needs with the right to peaceful protest. Meanwhile, PETA has urged H&M and COS to consider eliminating wool from their collections entirely.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
