CFDA is deeply committed to civic initiatives, and at last Friday’s launch of the first-ever Democracy Heroes list and awards, CFDA CEO Steven Kolb was recognized for his important work on behalf of the organization.
I am a voter. a project of HeadCount, in partnership with The Rockefeller Foundation, launched the Democracy Heroes list and awards show to, according to the press statement, “recognize and honor the efforts of leaders across our nation, each one breaking barriers and building solutions to ensure all marginalized voters have a seat in our democracy.”
“What inspires me most in my work with the CFDA and as a Democracy Hero is the power of collective voices. Fashion is an expression of identity, and the right to vote is a powerful form of self-expression and empowerment in our society,” Kolb said. “At the CFDA, we’ve always believed in the importance of elevating voices—whether it’s through design or advocacy. Promoting voter registration has allowed us to connect our creative community with a greater purpose, ensuring that the same creativity and passion we see in fashion can influence the future of democracy. It’s a privilege to work alongside so many who understand the power of their vote and the impact it has on shaping a better future.”
The dinner was held at the Rockefeller Foundation Space and hosted by Jessica Alba and Ariana DeBose with presenters including Julianne Hough, Busy Philipps, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, and Huma Adedin.
Guests included Debra Messing, Laura Brown, Hannah Bronfman, Stacey Bendet Eisner, and MSNBC President Rashida Jones.
“Being chosen as a Democracy Hero is a profound honor because it acknowledges not just my efforts but also the collective work of the CFDA in promoting civic engagement” Kolb added. “It reaffirms the idea that fashion isn’t just about design; it’s about influence, voice, and responsibility. It means that we, as an industry, can lead by example, showing that creativity goes hand-in-hand with activism. To be recognized for our role in encouraging voter registration is incredibly meaningful because it highlights the power we have to inspire change beyond our own field.”
Among the other honorees were Alexis Bechtol, Director of Community Affairs at Levi Strauss & Co.; Chelsea Miller, Co-founder of Freedom March NYC; David Ayala, Executive Director of The Formerly Incarcerated, Convicted People and Families Movement; LaTosha Brown, Co-founder of Black Voters Matter; Quavo. Founder of The Rocket Foundation, and Yevonne Brannon, Chair of Public Schools First.
Each honoree will will receive mentorship and leadership training to further empower their impact.
The list made its debut on MSNBC’s Morning Joe.
“We created The Democracy Heroes initiative to spotlight those who are taking bold steps every day to ensure that all voices are heard in our democracy,” said I am a Voter Co-founder Mandana Dayani. “These heroes are inspiring future generations with their stories, showing that change happens when we all show up, participate, and advocate for better – for all.”
