CFDA CEO Steven Kolb physically restrained two PETA protesters during the COS show at New York fashion week on Sunday, an incident that quickly went viral and reignited debate over animal welfare protests on the runway.
PETA demonstrations at fashion shows date back to the 1990s and are typically brief and nonviolent, aiming to spotlight the industry’s use of fur, leather, and, in this case, wool. Disruptions often pass with minimal notice as security responds and shows continue.
According to accounts from those involved, five activists planned to briefly interrupt the COS presentation to call out the brand’s use of wool. As the show began, one protester entered the runway with a sign and was quickly escorted out by security.
Shortly after, activist Mason Melito signaled to Andrija Barak to stand. Video captured by attendees shows CFDA CEO Steven Kolb restraining Barak, taking a sign from her and covering her mouth while holding her on the floor. When Barak got free, Melito rose to check on her and was also restrained by Kolb in a separate moment caught on camera.
Melito said the confrontation was frightening and alleged that Kolb acted unpredictably. He said he felt unsafe as the scene unfolded.
CFDA CEO Steven Kolb issues apology and takes leave
On Monday, Kolb posted a statement acknowledging he had “inappropriately restrained” two activists and said there was no justification for his actions. He added that after reviewing the videos he did not recognize himself in them, and that he would take a voluntary leave and seek professional help to ensure it does not happen again.
By Tuesday, the CFDA confirmed Kolb had been placed on leave pending a full review. The organization said it seeks to engage respectfully with differing viewpoints while advancing the American fashion industry. The H&M Group, parent of COS, said it was deeply sorry about the confrontation.
The flashpoint has renewed scrutiny of fashion’s supply chains and long-running concerns about animal welfare, waste, and labor practices across both mass-market and luxury segments. For some consumers, the altercation has prompted fresh questions about how garments are produced.
Melito characterized the episode as a win for animals, calling sheep the real victims and arguing that wool belongs to them.
The protests have continued elsewhere. On Thursday, activists interrupted an H&M show at London fashion week three times, carrying signs that read, “H&M: Wool is bloody cruel. Drop it.”
After multiple passes on the runway, they left voluntarily and were escorted out by security as some audience members booed. For more on shifting public sentiment and activism, see our American Culture Quiz: Try this week’s 8-question test.
