Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Model Alliance?
The Model Alliance (MA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit research, policy and advocacy organization for fashion industry workers. Founded in 2012 by model and labor activist Sara Ziff with the support of other models and industry leaders, we aim to advance fair treatment, equal opportunity, and more sustainable practices in the fashion industry, from the runway to the factory floor. You can read more about the Model Alliance here.
Does the Model Alliance only serve models?
No, the Model Alliance has a broad vision for solidarity across fashion’s global supply chain. Through strategic research, education, and various other activities, we promote fair treatment in the fashion industry and prevent abuse of a broad range of workers, from models and industry creatives to garment workers. We do this by encouraging models to have a voice in their work.
Can models unionize?
The law is currently unclear on whether models can legally unionize. Because models are considered independent contractors under most laws, and independent contractors are prohibited from unionizing, it is likely that models are unable to officially unionize. Doing so could potentially put unionized models at risk of being sued or retaliated against by their agencies. However, there are other, legally allowed, ways that models can organize to improve their working conditions. The Model Alliance’s RESPECT Program, for example, replicates many of the benefits of unionization without any of the potential legal issues. Models can also form advocacy groups, advance legislation, and engage in protest. Much of the new labor movement is built on the courageous organizing and alternative advocacy of workers who cannot technically form unions.
Are models considered employees or independent contractors?
Currently, models are considered employees under some laws and independent contractors under others. For example, in New York, models are employees for the purposes of Unemployment Insurance and Worker’s Compensation. However, under the Fair Labor Standards Act (a national law which ensures payment of minimum wage and legal recourse for sexual harassment in the workplace, among other protections) models are independent contractors, and thus not covered. There is a growing body of evidence, including case-law and labor standards, indicating that models are often misclassified as independent contractors. If models are indeed misclassified, then any employee-specific protections would extend to them once their true employee status is legally verified (through new litigation or legislation). As the issue of employment misclassification continues to be litigated and new legislation emerges, the Model Alliance, our model Leadership Council, and our community will continue to engage in and strategize paths forward for this question.
How can I donate to the Model Alliance?
Click here to donate using a credit or debit card.
What will my donation help support?
Your donation, no matter the amount, provides us with the necessary resources to launch campaigns, operate our support line, conduct important research, educate the industry and the general public, and continue our fight to advance labor justice in the fashion industry.
Who do I contact if I have a question about the Model Alliance?
For general inquiries, please email us at info@modelalliance.org.
Who do I contact if I have a workplace issue I’d like to discuss?
We provide free assistance for workers in fashion with complaints about inappropriate on-the-job conduct, agent issues, late or missing payments, and other work-related problems. To connect with a member of our Model Alliance Support staff, please contact us here.
How can I get involved with the Model Alliance?
To hear about our upcoming events and activities, subscribe to our newsletter. You may also follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for frequent updates.