Houston Airports was prominently featured at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's annual anti-human trafficking forum this summer at the Chamber's headquarters in Washington, D.C. The event, titled "Bolstering Efforts to Address Human Trafficking," took place on July 29 and was attended in person and virtually by a diverse audience, including representatives from federal and state agencies, non-governmental organizations and the private sector.

The forum, open to the public and press, focused on engaging business stakeholders and featured discussions on best practices for combating human trafficking. Experts from various fields, including the transportation and hospitality sectors, shared their insights on implementing the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) and its implications for businesses.

Scott Alexander, Director of International Relations for Houston Airports, represented the organization during a panel discussion titled "Technology for Good." He joined Tsvetelina Thompson, Managing Director of Twentyfour-Seven Inc. and Paul Pellizzari, Vice President of Global Social Responsibility at Hard Rock International, in a conversation moderated by Eliza McCoy, Vice President of Awareness and Prevention Programs at the American Hotel & Lodging Association.

Alexander highlighted the innovative approach by Houston Airports to leverage technology in the fight against human trafficking. During the discussion, he emphasized the airport system's commitment to eradicating human trafficking through initiatives like the strategic placement of signage and the use of QR codes that enable victims to report their situation discreetly.

"From advertising hotlines to leveraging technology to offer QR codes and training airport employees, Houston Airports must continue to evolve its strategies as the airport system fights to end human trafficking," said Scott Alexander, Director of International Relations for Houston Airports. "While it's been described as an invisible crime, human trafficking is happening in our communities. Houston Airports exists to connect the people, businesses, cultures, and economies of the world to Houston. In making those connections, we must do everything possible to keep passengers safe, informed, and empowered."

Houston Airports has taken significant steps to address human trafficking. Federal data indicates that 70% of trafficking victims are moved through airports, making it critical for airports to be at the forefront of efforts to combat this crime.

One of the key initiatives discussed at the forum was the recent update to a Houston Airports campaign. The airport system strategically places posters in all restrooms at George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport.  
 
The sign reads, “If you are controlled and do not have the freedom to leave, you may be a victim of human trafficking.” People are encouraged to call a hotline to report the crime. The campaign was updated to include a QR code created by the non-profit advocacy organization Twentyfour-Seven.  

What is human trafficking? | Human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act. It can happen in any community and victims can be any age, race, gender or nationality.

Traffickers might use | violence, manipulation, false promises of well-paying jobs or romantic relationships to lure victims into trafficking situations.

People targeted by traffickers | Those with psychological or emotional vulnerabilities, economic hardship, lack of a social safety net, victims of natural disasters and/or political instability

These QR codes, strategically placed in restrooms throughout George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport, allow victims to access information in multiple languages and report their situation discreetly. The technology also enables direct communication with the National Human Trafficking Hotline, ensuring that help is always available.

Michael Billet, Senior Director of Policy Research for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, praised the participation of Houston Airports in the forum, stating, "The event provided an opportunity for you to speak about the Houston Airport's commitment to eradicating human trafficking. Attendees appreciated hearing your thoughts on how the Houston Airport Systems continues to evolve its strategies in the fight against human trafficking by leveraging technologies to offer QR codes so that victims can self-report they are being trafficked."

The commitment by Houston Airports to end human trafficking is further demonstrated by its ongoing partnership with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Blue Lightning Initiative, through which more than 50,000 badged airport employees are now trained to identify and safely report human trafficking. The airport system's proactive approach has made it a leader in the fight against this heinous crime, setting a powerful example for other organizations worldwide.

As Houston continues to be a major hub for international travel, Houston Airports remains committed to using its resources and influence to protect the most vulnerable. The airport system's participation in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's anti-human trafficking forum underscores its dedication to making the skies safer for everyone.

LEARN MORE | Houston Airports leverages technology to help more victims of human trafficking