THE MODEL ALLIANCE
Tonight it was my privilege to host the first ever meeting of the newly formed Model Alliance - A nonprofit organization committed to establishing a voice for models within the American fashion industry. Up until now, models have sadly lacked a formal voice within the American fashion industry. Though modeling may seem to the outside to be a cushy and easy job, for most young girls, as independent contractors the rule of law in terms of workplace standards all too frequently fails to apply. Girls in their early teens are often pressured to work long hours for little to no pay. On occasions these models, thousands of miles from home, are even pushed by adults in the industry to compromise their morals and beliefs.
You would think I’m taking about the 18th century but this is even happening in 21st century New York.
Tonight was an amazing stepping stone in the right direction. As Jenna Sauers said “If we’ve had a single goal, it has been to create the organization that we wished had existed when we were young models”. As I looked out into the audience I was so proud to see models of my generation like Doutzen Kroes and Crystal Renn looking on and I’m sure they would agree with Jenna that we have all needed the Model Aliance for a long time.
Both Vogue and the CFDA have worked hard over the years to improve the working conditions of models, this despite the fact that its not their primary mandate. There has been quantifiable change for the better and there is no doubt in my mind that the Model Alliance will prove to be the extra push needed to expedite the changes we all hope to see.
I thank Sara Ziff for allowing me to join the Model Alliance board of advisors. It is her unique vision and passion that has led to this idea becoming a reality. For far too long modeling has been like the wild west - an unregulated and dangerous place for many. I’m so proud of the Model Alliance and all the models who showed up tonight. It takes a lot of guts to stand up for yourself.
For more information - www.modelalliance.org
*Big thanks to Smirnoff Vodka for helping sponsor the event tonight.