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CFDA President resignation following PETA protest

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2026-09-19 06:52 UTC → 2026-09-22 06:16 UTC · added ~~removed~~

During New York Fashion Week, Steven Kolb, the CEO and president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), was involved in a physical confrontation with PETA activists during a COS runway show. The protesters were demonstrating against the use of wool. Video footage showed Kolb pushing a male protester and using his leg to restrain a female activist while covering her mouth. Following the incident, Kolb was placed on leave by the CFDA board pending a review. He issued an apology, stating, “I reacted inappropriately to an incident at a show earlier today. It wasn’t my place to do so.” PETA characterized the encounter as an assault and indicated intentions to pursue criminal charges. Ultimately, Kolb resigned from his position after 20 years with the organization. He announced his formal resignation via his Substack newsletter, stating that it was the right moment for both him and the organization to begin a new chapter. In his resignation statement, he noted his pride in the CFDA’s financial growth and sustainability initiatives, while the board expressed gratitude for his long-term leadership. The CFDA board of directors described him as a “dedicated leader and tireless champion of American fashion.” Following his departure, PETA indicated that while they had initially considered filing a police report, they still intend to meet with Kolb to discuss animal welfare in the industry.

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