The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) has released a new set of initiatives aimed at addressing systematic racism in the fashion industry.

In a statement co-signed by Tom Ford (Chairman) and Steven Kolb (President and CEO), the below points will, it claims, be implemented immediately.

An in-house employment program: "The CFDA will create an in-house employment program specifically charged with placing Black talent in all sectors of the fashion business to help achieve a racially balanced industry. This program will be tasked with identifying Black creatives and pairing these individuals with companies looking to hire."

A mentorship program: "The CFDA will also create a mentorship program and an internship program focused on placing Black students and recent graduates within established companies in the fashion sector."

Diversity and Inclusion training: "The CFDA will implement and make available to our members a Diversity and Inclusion training program."

Fundraising: "We will make immediate contributions and take up fundraising activities in support of charitable organizations aimed at equalizing the playing field for the Black community such as, but not limited to the NAACP and Campaign Zero – amongst others."

The CFDA also urges all of its members to "take stock of their corporate structure" to ensure a racially balanced workforce and called for retailers to do the same in terms of brand and product.

Further reading: Streetwear Is About People, Not Clothes