What The Model Alliance Is

The Model Alliance is a real advocacy organization founded by former model Sara Ziff, working to protect models from exploitation and abuse across the fashion industry through both policy advocacy and direct programs.

How the RESPECT Program Actually Works

The RESPECT Program is a legally binding agreement that fashion brands, agencies, and other businesses can sign, committing to an enforceable code of conduct against sexual harassment and abuse — backed by an independent Standards Council that receives and investigates complaints.

Why an Enforceable Program Matters More Than a Statement

Unlike a general public statement of values, the RESPECT Program includes real mandatory consequences for violations and a confidential, accessible complaint mechanism — making it a genuinely enforceable standard, not just a symbolic gesture.

What This Means for This Academy’s Standards

This course draws directly on the RESPECT Program’s core principles — the right to work without fear of harassment or abuse, and a real mechanism for accountability when that’s violated — as the standard every course in this academy should operate within.