Formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the partnership with the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s (AHLA) Canadian counterpart establishes a framework for collaboration between the AHLA Foundation and Hotels Canada, aligning their respective anti-trafficking initiatives to further strengthen industry participation and advance coordinated efforts across borders.
“Human trafficking knows no borders and our response should not either,” said Kevin Carey, president/CEO, AHLA Foundation. “By partnering with Hotels Canada, we are reinforcing our shared commitment to equipping hotel employees with the training and resources they need to help identify and prevent trafficking. Together, we can build a stronger, more united hospitality industry committed to protecting vulnerable individuals.”
Beth McMahon, president/CEO, Hotels Canada, said, “Human trafficking is a complex issue that requires collective action. This partnership will create a stronger, more coordinated international response by expanding awareness, increasing access to resources and strengthening our industry’s capacity to help prevent and combat human trafficking.”
The foundation also announced the expansion of its NRFT Advisory Council, with the appointment of top executives at Red Roof and Accor. Gerrod Bede, general counsel, Red Roof, was named as co-chair. Bede’s leadership in shaping Red Roof’s anti-trafficking strategy reflects the company’s commitment to continuous improvement and partnering with industry organizations to advance solutions that help raise awareness and confront human trafficking. Bede will serve alongside current co-chair Joan Bottarini, CFO, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, to help guide the strategic direction of the NRFT initiative and support collaboration across the hospitality industry.
“I am honored to have been selected as co-chair of the No Room for Trafficking Advisory Council,” said Bede. “The hospitality industry has the opportunity to bring awareness to the crime of human trafficking, and I look forward to working alongside the AHLA Foundation, Hotels Canada and industry leaders across North America to expand our impact and continue advancing this important work.”
Accor’s Marina Elsener, executive director, sustainability, Raffles & Fairmont, will also join the Advisory Council.
Tags: Kevin Carey, AHLA Foundation Hotels Canada American Hotel & Lodging Association’s (AHLA) No Room for Trafficking
