The fashion world takes a stand against sexual harassment (2018)

In response to the surge of sexual harassment reports within the fashion industry post #MeToo, Sara Ziff, former model and founder of the non-profit organization "Model Alliance," a fervent advocate for the rights of models, has introduced the groundbreaking "Respect Program." The primary objective is to foster a working environment founded on respect among agencies, brands, models, and all other creatives involved.

The unveiling of this revolutionary concept took place at the Copenhagen Fashion Summit this week. Sara Ziff had previously taken to her Instagram account to share an open letter elucidating the program's essence: "As models, our images serve a commercial purpose, but our bodies belong to us," expressed Ziff. "My consent to be photographed or filmed as a professional representative of a product or brand does not include consent to be groped, fondled, involuntarily undressed or worse."

Despite models being among the most visible figures in the fashion realm, they currently lack fundamental labor laws safeguarding their rights. The "Respect Program" seeks to rectify this: Models will now have access to a confidential complaints process designed to shield them from retaliation, ensuring an impartial investigation with enduring outcomes. Additionally, the program endeavors to guarantee timely payments for models, preventing them from becoming unduly reliant on their agencies.

Models to get better working conditions in future.

Sonny Vandevelde / Indigital.tv

Revolutionizing Well-being: Kering and LVMH Unite with WeCareForModels Website

In a remarkable collaboration, fashion giants Kering and LVMH are intensifying their commitment to the welfare of models with the launch of WeCareForModels.com. This marks the second time these rival fashion powerhouses are joining forces, echoing their dedication to a common cause.

James Scully, a prominent casting director, ignited a discussion within the fashion industry at a "Business of Fashion" conference last year, shedding light on issues such as insufficient diversity, excessive pressure, and the mistreatment of models. His revelations, shared on Instagram, reverberated across the industry, prompting a response from François-Henri Pinault of Kering and Antoine Arnault of LVMH. Together, they engaged in a dialogue with Scully, leading to the creation of a Model Charter—a commitment to enhancing working conditions and well-being for models under their brands.

The Model Charter, featuring mandatory medical examinations, regular health confirmations, and measures to ensure privacy and protection from misconduct, aims to set new industry standards. While the tangible impact of this charter remains to be seen, it has already fostered a heightened awareness within the fashion world.

Taking a bold step forward, Kering and LVMH are now unveiling WeCareForModels.com. This website serves as an invaluable resource for models, offering information and professional advice on both physical and mental health. Covering topics like nutrition and stress management, the platform emphasizes a proactive approach to well-being.

The site boldly declares, "We care," emphasizing not only the commitment of the fashion conglomerates but also the expectation for models to actively engage in their own well-being. WeCareForModels.com acts as a complementary initiative to the Model Charter, setting elevated standards for the industry and promoting self-responsibility and awareness. Recognizing the power of informed models, this initiative seeks to empower them with knowledge of their rights and avenues for recourse in case of any violations.

More about this topic: