Over 100 models have signed an open letter to Victoria’s Secret in light of allegations of sexual assault, alleged rape, and sex trafficking of models and aspiring models. The letter calls on Victoria Secret to join the worker-driven RESPECT program, which was designed by and for models to root out long-standing abuses in the fashion modeling industry. The letter reads:

“The RESPECT Program—a program of the Model Alliance—is the only existing anti-sexual harassment program designed by and for models. Signatory companies make a binding commitment to require their employees, agents, vendors, photographers and other contractors to follow a code of conduct that protects everyone’s safety on the job, and reduces models’ vulnerability to mistreatment. Models have access to an independent, confidential complaint mechanism, with swift and fair resolution of complaints and appropriate consequences for abusers. Further, RESPECT includes a robust training program aimed toward prevention, to ensure that everyone understands their rights and responsibilities.”

In contrast to voluntary self-regulation initiatives, worker-driven efforts such as the RESPECT program offer concrete recourse for models facing abuse and establish a binding system to hold perpetrators – and those who turn a blind eye to them – accountable.