Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming Lead the Charge Against Human Trafficking
Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming are taking significant strides in combating human trafficking. Their initiatives not only support victims and at-risk individuals but also aim to prevent this global issue through innovative programs and partnerships.
Jim Allen, the Chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole Gaming, emphasizes the company's deep commitment to fighting human trafficking in collaboration with community partners. Their approach is multifaceted, focusing on victim support, youth education, and team member training.
A key innovation is the adoption of the Twentyfour-Seven QR code sticker, created by survivors for survivors. This tool offers crucial information and support, making Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming the first hospitality brands to implement it globally across 44 hotels and casinos in 13 countries. This QR code plays a dual role in aiding those at risk and deterring traffickers.
In Mexico, the expansion of the Hard Rock Social Identity Quest (SIQ) into classrooms, especially after its successful pilot in Quintana Roo, is a notable step in preventing online luring of teens. This program, mandatory in the state's educational curriculum, is co-developed with experts and reaches a significant number of students and teachers in the U.S.
The Change for Change program exemplifies their commitment to funding anti-trafficking efforts. In 2023, this initiative raised $100,000 for PACT and Covenant House New York. It allows casino guests to contribute to the fight against human trafficking through donations.
Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming also focus on offering career paths in hospitality to protect and support at-risk youth and survivors. Their Youth Employment Program, in collaboration with Covenant House New York City and FLITE Center, is a testament to this commitment, providing valuable opportunities for vulnerable groups.
Partnerships for Training and Standards
In partnership with the American Gaming Association’s Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force, Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming are setting new training standards in the gaming industry. This training, developed with non-profit and law enforcement partners, is based on trauma-informed care and includes contributions from trafficking survivors.
For regular business travelers, these initiatives by Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming represent a responsible choice in their travel and accommodation options. Knowing that they are staying or conducting business in establishments that actively fight against human trafficking and support vulnerable communities adds a layer of ethical responsibility to their travel decisions. Furthermore, the technological innovations like the Twentyfour-Seven QR code can provide an added sense of security and awareness, aligning with the needs of business travelers for reliable and socially responsible services.
The efforts of Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming demonstrate a strong commitment to social responsibility, particularly in combating human trafficking. Their comprehensive approach, ranging from innovative tools to educational programs and community support, not only sets a benchmark in the hospitality and gaming industry but also offers a model for others to follow in addressing global social issues. For the business travel community, this represents a significant step towards more ethical and socially conscious travel choices.
