The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) is making significant strides in supporting Black talent within the industry by taking concrete actions to promote inclusivity and diversity. In a recent announcement, the organization revealed the formation of a new Black advisory board, tasked with overseeing all initiatives related to equality within the CFDA.
Leading the newly established advisory board is CFDA president CaSandra Diggs, who took on the role in August after serving as the chief administrative and financial officer of the organization. Chairing the board is Tracy Reese, the executive board vice chairwoman, with esteemed members including Harper’s Bazaar editor-in-chief Samira Nasr, Netflix chief marketing officer Bozoma Saint John, Fashion Tech Connects co-founder Stacie Henderson, and Martin Cooper, co-founder of The Punctilious Mr. P’s Place Cards Company.
According to CFDA Chairman Tom Ford, the organization is dedicated to instigating systemic change in the fashion sector to elevate voices that have historically been underrepresented. In furtherance of this commitment, the CFDA has appointed Bonnie Morrison to a newly established role focused on spearheading equity program initiatives to expand opportunities for Black individuals in the industry.
Bringing a wealth of experience from her consultancy firm, Morrison Strategy Partners, Morrison has collaborated with renowned companies such as Coach, Condé Nast, KCD, and PR Consulting. Her role will involve developing and executing new programs to support Black creatives and professionals, including the recently created CFDA task force and talent placement program.
CFDA CEO Steven Kolb stressed the significance of these organizational changes in catalyzing transformation within the fashion industry. By embracing diverse perspectives and fostering inclusivity, the CFDA aims to foster a fashion landscape that is more equitable and representative of all voices within the industry.
The CFDA’s commitment to addressing systemic racism within the fashion sector was first announced in response to the widespread protests and demands for racial equality in the U.S. Through the implementation of new initiatives and the establishment of key leadership roles, the CFDA is actively working towards cultivating a more inclusive and diverse fashion industry.
Learn more about the CFDA’s initiatives for promoting Black talent in the fashion industry here.
Discover how the Morrison Strategy Partners consultancy is collaborating with industry leaders to promote diversity and inclusion in fashion here.
