#United States #Hollywood #Human Trafficking #Hard Rock International #ECPAT International

Hard Rock International Recognized for Anti-Trafficking Efforts

In a groundbreaking moment, Hard Rock International (HRI) has been acknowledged by ECPAT International as one of the Top Members of The Code for its dedication to preventing human trafficking. This recognition marks HRI as the first organization in the gaming sector to achieve such an honor, showcasing its unwavering commitment to this pressing global issue.

ECPAT International is a prominent entity focused on ending the exploitation of children worldwide through research, advocacy, and action. The Code, which HRI signed in 2022, provides vital resources and training to the travel and tourism industry, aiding companies in protecting vulnerable children from sexual exploitation. By adhering to The Code, Hard Rock has significantly demonstrated its commitment to child protection in an industry that can attract offenders.

Stephanie Piimauna, Senior Vice President of People Inclusion at HRI, expressed her pride in the recognition, stating, "Everyone at Hard Rock International is incredibly honored to be recognized... Human trafficking is a critical issue that demands sustained action from industry leaders."

Expanding Anti-Trafficking Initiatives

To commemorate World Tourism Day on September 27, Hard Rock participated in ECPAT’s event focused on sustainable tourism and its transformative potential. During this event, Paul Pellizzari, Vice President of Global Social Responsibility, highlighted various anti-trafficking initiatives HRI has undertaken, emphasizing the importance of team collaboration in the fight against human trafficking.

Social Identity Quest Educational Program

A noteworthy aspect of their anti-trafficking campaign is the Social Identity Quest (SIQ) program. This year, an additional 500,000 students across the United States and Mexico participated in SIQ, a collaborative educational effort with PACT (Protect All Children from Trafficking).

Newly released SIQ programs focus on Spanish-speaking audiences and address crucial topics for different age groups, including safe social media practices and awareness around online relationships and trafficking. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce even recognized SIQ as a national best practice this year.

Financial Contributions to Anti-Trafficking Efforts

Moreover, to support PACT, Hard Rock committed $100,000 this year through its Change for Change initiative, allowing casino guests to donate their change for anti-trafficking efforts.

Comprehensive Team Member Training

Hard Rock has also prioritized training its guest-facing team members in recognizing and responding to potential trafficking situations. Over 65,000 training sessions have been completed in 2025 alone, thus creating a robust network of personnel well-equipped to act against human trafficking.

About Hard Rock International

Hard Rock International operates in nearly 80 countries and manages over 300 venues, including hotels, casinos, and live music venues. Renowned for its extensive collection of music memorabilia, it remains committed to social responsibility and enhancing community well-being. Through initiatives like these, Hard Rock aims to create a safer and more responsible environment for all participants within its expansive network.

In conclusion, Hard Rock International's achievements in combating human trafficking set a significant precedent, underscoring the importance of corporate social responsibility in addressing urgent societal issues. By continually expanding its educational and training programs, HRI demonstrates its long-term commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and championing change in the industry.