The Body Politic: From Banning Burkinis to Designing Democracy

Burkini bans in France and the resulting  controversy are a powerful reminder of why fashion plays an important role in politics: what we wear defines who we are, both as individuals and as nations. Are religious rules for fashion consistent with democratic values? How do designers reconcile freedom with faith? Can fashion companies appeal to niche markets without alienating mainstream consumers? And what are the practical and political implications of the ABA’s new anti-discrimination rule?  Join us as we launch an ongoing election-season discussion of the role of fashion in public life with “The Body Politic: From Banning Burkinis to Designing Democracy.”

DATE: Friday, September 9, 2016
TIME: 9:30-10:45am (breakfast 9am)
PLACE: Fordham Law School building, 150 W. 62nd Street, Room 7-119
NYS CLE: 1.5 hours (1.0 hour ethics; .5 hours professional practice, transitional and non-transitional)

Speakers:

• Asma Uddin, attorney and director of strategy for the Center on Islam and Religious Freedom (CIRF) (“When a Swimsuit is a Security Threat,” NY Times)
• Asra Nomani, journalist, author, professor and co-founder, Pearl Project at Georgetown University (interview with Bill Maher)
• Sara and Sondos Elnakib, Beaute Cache | Hidden Beauty (New York Times; The Record)
• Chaya Chanin and Simi Polonsky, The Frock (Vogue; The Daily Beast)
• Professor Susan Scafidi, Founder & Academic Director, Fashion Law Institute
• MODERATOR:  Jeff Trexler, Esq.

We look forward to celebrating Fashion Week with you!

The Fashion Law Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the world’s first academic center devoted to the law and business of fashion. For more information about the Institute or the CLE hardship policy, please contact us at events@fashionlawinstitute.com.