Responsible Meetings: Our Industry’s Role in Combatting Human Trafficking

  

Last week during MPI’s the EVENT held at the Brookstreet Hotel in Ottawa, attendees had the opportunity to hear an in-depth discussion about human trafficking and the ways our industry can help combat the fastest growing and second largest criminal industry in the world. Frequently visiting airports, convention spaces, and hotels, meeting professionals are uniquely well-placed to recognize and report signs of human trafficking. 

The human trafficking panel, moderated by Lizzy Low, Ottawa Tourism Business Events Manager and MPAHT Board member, and Stephanie Lapensee, Sales Manager at the Brookstreet Hotel and Marshes Golf Club brought together experts from law enforcement, advocacy organizations, and our hospitality industry to discuss the multifaceted issues surrounding this global crisis. Panelists highlighted the various forms of trafficking—sexual exploitation, forced labor, and trafficking of minors—emphasizing the need for comprehensive awareness and prevention strategies.

The panel was made up of the following experts:

• Cynthia Bland, Founder and CEO of VoiceFound
• Detective Cindy Cybulski, Human Trafficking Division, Ottawa Police
• Detective Jordan Bouchard-Bourdeau, Human Trafficking Division, Ottawa Police
• Shawnne Cranston, Rooms Division Director, Brookstreet Hotel and Marshes Golf Club

Key topics included the importance of industry and community collaboration in raising awareness, ways to identify and report suspicious activities, the role of legislation in protecting victims, and the challenges faced in prosecuting traffickers. Stories from those with lived experience were reshared with permission and highlighted the critical importance of listening to and working with survivors in this space.

The panel not only raised awareness but also fostered a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding this issue. As we move forward, it’s essential that we continue these conversations, challenge the status quo and the stigma, and work collectively to create a world where every individual is free from exploitation.

Ways you can help today:

• Learn the signs
• Take virtual training specifically for hospitality professionals
• Save the Canadian Hotline number in your phone: 1.833.900.1010
• Add language into your RFPs
• Share & reshare resources on social media

For more information and resources about Human Trafficking in Canada:

• MPI Global’s Human Trafficking Resources
• Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking
• Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline
• MPAHT

 
Lizzy Low
Moderator & Author
Business Events Manager
Ottawa Tourism & MPAHT Board Member