The CEO and president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America said he will voluntarily take a leave of absence after he was captured on video grabbing an animal rights protester and covering her mouth during a New York Fashion Week runway show Sunday.
\n\nIn the video, which NBC News viewed, Steven Kolb grabbed the person from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, who was protesting fashion designer COS’ use of wool at its runway show. He then pulled the protester to the side of the runway, covering her mouth and using his leg to restrain her.
\n\nOn Monday, Kolb apologized for his actions and said he took full responsibility.
\n\n“What happened was completely out of character for me, both personally and as a leader,” he said in a statement. “As I review the videos, I understand the reaction they have generated. Frankly, I don’t recognize that person. As a result, I am taking a voluntary leave from work and meeting with a professional to ensure it never happens again.”
\n\nThe council did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Last year, the council, which is the leading trade organization for the fashion industry, announced that beginning with…
Original source: https://www.nbcnews.com/