CFDA CEO Takes Leave After Restraining PETA Protesters

The CEO of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) took a leave of absence after physically restraining animal rights activists during a New York Fashion Week runway show on September 13. The incident occurred at a show for the brand COS, where Steven Kolb was filmed grabbing two People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) employees, pinning one woman to the floor, and covering her mouth and nose to stop them from protesting the use of sheep wool.

Kolb apologized for his actions, stating there was no justification for physically restraining another person and admitting that security should have handled the situation. The CFDA announced that Kolb is on leave pending a full review of the matter. H&M Group, the parent company of COS, expressed regret over the incident and defended its animal welfare standards, though it noted that licenses for one wool and one mohair farm were suspended following investigations into PETA's allegations.

While PETA initially considered filing police reports and criminal charges for assault, the organization later decided to pursue a meeting with Kolb instead. PETA intends to use the meeting to discuss ending the use of wool and animal skins in fashion and plans to show Kolb videos of sheep mistreatment. The organization stated it is willing to drop further action if an understanding that benefits animals is reached.