PRESS RELEASE:

CANADIAN HOTEL ASSOCIATIONS JOIN

FORCES TO COMBAT HUMAN TRAFFICKING

JUNE 13, 2024 – In a groundbreaking initiative to combat human trafficking, the British Columbia Hotel Association (BCHA), Alberta Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), Hospitality Saskatchewan, Manitoba Hotel Association (MHA), and Ontario Restaurant Hotel and Motel Association (ORHMA) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to develop and deliver human trafficking awareness and prevention training and resources to hotels - with the goal of training every hotel employee from BC to Ontario.

Human trafficking is one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada, with thousands of victims being exploited annually. The Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking estimates that over 1,400 cases were reported to law enforcement between 2011 and 2019. These numbers continue to increase, and many incidents go unreported. Hotels can inadvertently become venues for traffickers, making it imperative for the hospitality industry to take a proactive stance in recognizing and preventing human trafficking.

"Since trafficking networks often rely on legitimate businesses—many in the tourism supply chain—to sustain their illicit and illegal operations, hoteliers are uniquely positioned to identify and disrupt this terrible practice. This MOA empowers our members to be the first line of defense against trafficking activities, reinforcing our dedication to protecting human dignity." - Tracy Douglas-Blowers, President & CEO, AHLA

About the Initiative

The MOA outlines a commitment by the 5 provincial hotel associations to:

• Develop training materials that raise awareness of human trafficking among hoteliers. 
• Educate hotels, motels, and other accommodation providers about recognizing the signs of human trafficking. 
• Equip hotel owners and managers with the tools to train their staff on preventing and responding to potential human trafficking situations. 

Training Resources and Implementation 

Partnering with NotInMyCity, the associations will create a "Not in Our Hotel” toolkit, which will include: 

• Sample policies for hotels and guidelines for employee orientation.
• Best practices for accommodation providers. 
• Training materials for management and staff, including online courses that provide certificates of completion.
• Posters and quick reference guides for employees.
• Resources to help employees discuss human trafficking with their children and support staff impacted by trafficking. 

Commitment to Prevention

Hotels are committed to creating safe environments for all guests and staff. By signing this MOA, the BCHA, AHLA, SHHA, MHA, and ORHMA demonstrate their dedication to combating human trafficking. This initiative not only aligns with federal and provincial efforts to eradicate human trafficking but also supports the safety and well-being of the communities hotels serve.

“ORHMA welcomes this collaborative initiative by the Provincial Hotel Associations, and we are proud to be part of this group fighting Human Trafficking. By working together, we can leverage our resources and provide necessary training, while sending a powerful message against these despicable and criminal acts occurring in our hotels. The project aims to support all Ontario hotels with the information and tools required to combat the illegal operations of Human Trafficking.” – Tony Elenis, President & CEO, ORHMA

For questions and inquiries, please email Jasveen Rattan at jrattan@orhma.com.

Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA)

2600 Skymark Ave, Suite 8-201 Mississauga, ON L4W 5B2

905-361-0268 / 1-800 -668-8906

info@orhma.com | www.orhma.com