Bethann Hardison’s Cause: More Diversity in Fashion - NYTimes.com

Bethann Hardison’s Cause: More Diversity in Fashion - NYTimes.com: Bethann Hardison, the fashion industry gadfly, has adopted a slogan: “Activism needs to remain active.” Her cause is the lack of diversity on fashion’s runways, its magazine pages and its ad campaigns. It is one that she has pursued vocally for years, as the ebb and flow of trends steer models of color into and out of favor. Now, for being a persistent thorn in the side of an industry that often prefers to ignore the issue, Ms. Hardison is to receive the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s Founders Award in June. Most thorns get plucked. This one is getting a trophy.

“I became so emotional, because all I could think about was the revolution,” Ms. Hardison said of her reaction. “Viva la revolution. First thing, I said, ‘I’ve got to call Fidel!’ ”