(Trigger Warning - Mention of S/A)

This could include submission to these advances under the pretense of employment. These advances create a hostile environment and prevent models/employees from actually working properly. Sara Ziff, founder of Model Alliance, describes that models are often cast between the ages of 13 to 16, and are extremely vulnerable and at high risk of being harassed.  An extremely devastating case is that of supermodel, Carre Otis. At 17 years old, Carre claimed she was sexually abused by her own agent. Models have been harassed by photographers as well; photographer Terry Richardson has multiple documented cases of harassment including his demands for inappropriate sexual contact with various models. Unfortunately, agencies and companies often still send models to such predators.

As a result, models have pursued careers helping other models into recovery for the abuse they have withstood from leaders in their profession.  Nikki DuBose is a former model turned mental health advocate who states that one way she was pressured into getting work was by having sexual relationships with her director.  Essentially, these young women and girls are met with sexual demands for terms or conditions of employment. If rejected, they may lose their careers, left with no choice but to submit to the heinous conduct of their employers. These women and girls are even set up with men overseas despite their strong reluctance. 

In California, Assembly Bill 2539 was introduced to provide health and safety rights to models. This bill states they are employees (rather than independent contractors), and must have safety protections and that agencies have to be licensed plus regulated.  (https://openstates.org/ca/bills/20152016/AB2539/ )

Doreen Small advises models to speak up and advocate for themselves - on employment and contractual issues: