Marriott’s Bold Fight Against Human Trafficking

June 30, 2023

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In a remarkable demonstration of solidarity and commitment to social causes, the J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation and Marriott International have pledged a significant $550,000 joint donation to the AHLA Foundation’s No Room for Trafficking (NRFT) Survivor Fund. The heartening announcement, released today, marks a notable stride in the hospitality industry’s ceaseless efforts to combat the escalating issue of human trafficking.

The landmark donation fortifies the NRFT Survivor Fund, catapulting its financial arsenal to an impressive $3.4 million since its establishment under a year ago. The money will be disbursed as grants to community-based organizations deeply entrenched in providing financial support and stability to human trafficking survivors, visit the AHLA Foundation site.

Marriott International’s President and CEO, Anthony Capuano, spoke vehemently against the atrocity of human trafficking, labelling it a “profound violation of human rights” and stating it fundamentally opposes the guiding principles of Marriott. He clarified, “This contribution mirrors our deep commitment to the global battle against human trafficking and signifies our next stride towards raising awareness and assisting survivors.”

Emanating from a place of shared commitment, Mieka Wick, the Executive Director of the J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation, amplified these sentiments. Wick emphasized the foundation’s long-standing mission of empowering individuals to reach their highest potential. She expressed profound pride in supporting the hospitality industry’s resolute efforts to end human trafficking and aid survivors’ stability and success.

The AHLA Foundation, the vigilant custodian of the NRFT Survivor Fund, is set to award its initial grants next month. The foundation’s President, Anna Blue, underlined the importance of these contributions. “Every contribution amplifies our industry’s impact in the fight against human trafficking. We are deeply grateful for Marriott’s leadership and support,” Blue stated. She added that the industry’s unwavering unity in combating human trafficking and its continued investment in survivor support would undoubtedly usher in life-changing transformations.

The AHLA Foundation’s No Room for Trafficking program is the industry’s battle banner, aiming to rally the entire hospitality sector around collective anti-trafficking efforts. This initiative’s crux lies in training, education, and survivor support, forming a robust and holistic approach to tackling this global issue.

For more information on the No Room for Trafficking initiative, visit their website.

It is reassuring to witness influential entities such as the J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation and Marriott International committing themselves to fight against human trafficking. Significant strides can be made towards eradicating this inhuman trade through unity, collaboration, and substantial contributions.