Tommy Hilfiger’s dedication to fostering diversity and inclusivity in the fashion industry is exemplified through its latest initiative, the ‘People’s Place Program’. As a response to the Black Lives Matter movement, the renowned brand, owned by PVH, has pledged a minimum of $5 million annually for the next three years to support BIPOC individuals. The goal of this program, named after Hilfiger’s original retail business, goes beyond just the fashion sector to promote representation and equity for BIPOC individuals across various industries.
The ‘People’s Place Program’ is structured around a three-pronged approach. The first pillar emphasizes partnerships and representation, working towards collaborating with purpose-driven organizations to amplify BIPOC visibility in the industry. The second pillar focuses on providing career support and industry access, offering resources and opportunities for BIPOC individuals to excel in their chosen fields. Lastly, the third pillar, industry leadership, aims to examine and tackle diversity, equity, and inclusion issues within the fashion realm through actionable plans.
Designer Tommy Hilfiger himself has voiced his commitment to dismantling systemic racism in the industry and creating a more inclusive climate. He stresses the necessity of deliberate and consistent actions to instigate change. The brand intends to establish a senior leadership team to monitor the progress and impact of the program, ensuring transparency through regular updates.
CEO of Tommy Hilfiger Global and PVH Europe, Martijn Hagman, has acknowledged the brand’s past shortcomings and underlined the urgency of taking immediate measures. The ‘Comprehensive Action Plan’ launched by Tommy Hilfiger includes strategies to address internal diversity gaps, like educating leaders on systemic racism, offering diversity resources for employees, and revamping recruitment policies.
Through the combined efforts of the ‘People’s Place Program’ and the ‘Comprehensive Action Plan’, Tommy Hilfiger is actively working towards championing diversity and equity in the fashion industry. The brand remains committed to creating opportunities and standing up for what is morally right, showcasing its dedication to driving positive change within the organization and beyond.
For more information on the ‘People’s Place Program’ and Tommy Hilfiger’s diversity initiatives, visit their official website here. Additionally, to learn more about the importance of diversity in the fashion industry, click here.
