Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming Launch Initiatives Against Human Trafficking in Hospitality

Stepping Up Against Human Trafficking

In January, recognized as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming have embarked on a commitment to combat human trafficking within the hospitality industry. Their initiative includes an imaginative mix of educational programs, community workshops, and new partnerships, all aimed at raising awareness and sparking change in an industry with increasing vulnerability to these heinous crimes, especially within and around major events like sports gatherings.

Reflecting on Responsibility

The narrative begins with an acknowledgment of the company's social responsibility. "Our responsibility extends far beyond providing world-class entertainment and hospitality experiences," stated Stephanie Piimauna, Senior Vice President of People and Inclusion at Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming. The emphasis on recognizing their role in prevention and combatting human trafficking highlights an urgent moral imperative that transcends typical corporate commitments. By expanding their anti-trafficking initiatives, they are aligning their operational practices with a mission to protect the vulnerable.

Significant Events Scheduled

Central to these initiatives is a series of impactful workshops slated for this month, inviting community partners, team members, and industry leaders to actively engage in creating innovative strategies and practices. For instance, the Warrior Workshop at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida, will address unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities and gather insights on prevention strategies. Meanwhile, an educational forum at Hard Rock Hotel New York will take place later in January, featuring trafficking survivors and industry experts. These forums aim to build collective strategies and commitments to protect youth and increase awareness of human trafficking.

New Global Partnership: It's A Penalty

A significant highlight of this initiative is the collaboration with It's A Penalty, tapping into the global platform afforded by the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This partnership plans to roll out an extensive campaign to inform attendees about recognizing the signs of human trafficking while providing key resources for safety and reporting. With a focus on at-risk individuals, this initiative underscores the increasing recognition of major events as moments not just for sporting excellence, but as crucial opportunities to address social issues.

Educational Efforts Through Social Identity Quest

Furthering their efforts, Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming have made significant strides with their Social Identity Quest (SIQ) program, which has been tailored to educate students about online safety and the perils of human trafficking. Since its launch, this program has reached over 3.2 million students and has been adapted to cater to diverse age groups and languages, marking it as a recognized best practice by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Change for Change Initiative

In addition to educational initiatives, Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming are engaging guests through their Change for Change initiative, allowing patrons to contribute spare change towards the Hard Rock Heals Foundation, which supports anti-trafficking organizations like PACT. This year, the commitment has materialized into a substantial $100,000 donation, showcasing how the hospitality sector can serve as a pillar of community support while addressing health issues.

Amplifying Team Member Awareness

Lastly, as a preventive measure, nearly 143,510 frontline team members have undergone comprehensive anti-trafficking training since 2022. This training drives home the importance of being vigilant and aware of the signs of victimization, empowering employees to act rapidly and responsibly. Further enhancing their response capabilities, the deployment of Twentyfour-Seven QR code stickers across properties serves as a lifeline for those seeking help, leading to numerous successful interventions thus far.

A Vision for the Future

The cooperative efforts by Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming not only spotlight a critical issue but also pave the way for a future where the hospitality industry stands resilient against human trafficking. These initiatives, especially within the context of significant events, not only serve to educate and empower but also embody a larger commitment to societal responsibility. As these programs develop, they not only aim to protect vulnerable individuals but also reshape perceptions about the role of businesses in combating social issues. Through continued commitment and innovative strategies, Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming aspire to be leaders in this essential fight against human trafficking.