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Exclusive: See Something, Say Something

March 23, 2026

Closeup of girls hand with the word no

Maritz’ Lisa Carcaci explains how meeting and hospitality professionals can help stop human trafficking — one event at a time.

Human trafficking doesn’t happen only in far-off places or shadowy corners of the internet. It happens at hotels, airports, conference centers — the very spaces where meeting professionals spend their working lives.

Lisa Carcaci, CMP, SEPC, Senior Meeting Event Manager at Maritz and chair of the company’s internal Human Trafficking Awareness Committee, spoke with Prevue about why our industry is uniquely positioned to make a difference, and what planners can start doing today.

Prevue: Why is human trafficking awareness something all of us in the meetings and hospitality industry need to take seriously?

Carcaci: Increasing awareness and prevention is so important because trafficking often occurs in everyday environments and can be difficult to recognize without training. Understanding the signs is truly a shared responsibility. Event professionals are uniquely positioned to help because we travel frequently and work in settings with large numbers of people moving quickly through spaces like airports, train stations, and large event venues. Our vantage point gives us the opportunity to notice concerning behaviors that may indicate someone is in trouble.

Prevue: Why do travel, meetings, and incentive programs make tempting targets for human traffickers?

Carcaci: These busy environments can make it easier for traffickers to move victims without drawing attention. High guest turnover at hotels and event venues can hide unusual or concerning behaviors. Large events create a level of anonymity that traffickers may try to exploit, especially when attendees are unfamiliar with the destination or the people around them.

Prevue: What are some signs that could indicate someone is a victim of human trafficking?

Carcaci: There are several signs to watch for. A person may appear anxious, fearful, or unusually submissive, especially in the presence of someone who seems to control their movements or interactions. They may avoid eye contact or allow another person to speak for them. An individual might seem unsure about where they are, where they are staying, or how long they’ll be there. Signs of physical neglect or unexplained injuries can also be cause for concern. In some cases, a person may appear to have very limited freedom of movement or be closely monitored. Minors traveling with adults who cannot clearly explain their relationship are also a significant red flag.

Prevue: What are some of the myths around human trafficking that cause people to shy away from getting involved?

Carcaci: One common myth is that trafficking only occurs in certain types of communities or far from where we live and work, when in fact it can happen anywhere, even among people the victim knows well. Another misconception is that victims will always ask for help, when the reality is that many are unable to speak up due to fear or threats. Some people may also worry about being wrong and misinterpreting a situation. You can learn more about these myths at www.wearepact.org.

Prevue: Why do meeting and hospitality professionals sometimes hesitate to report suspected trafficking?

Carcaci: There are several understandable reasons. Individuals may worry about making a false assumption or misinterpreting a situation. Some may feel they lack the training or confidence to accurately identify potential signs. The fast-paced nature of event work can make it difficult to stop, observe, and assess a situation carefully. Others may assume that security or law enforcement will notice and escalate first. But at Maritz, we believe in “see something, say something.”

Prevue: What should meeting and hospitality professionals do — and what should they avoid — if they notice signs of trafficking at their event?

Carcaci: If you notice potential signs of trafficking, the most important thing you can do is trust your instincts and report your concerns, even if you’re not fully certain. Follow your company’s established internal protocols so that trained security or leadership teams can assess and escalate appropriately. When it’s safe to do so, document what you observed — including times, locations and specific behaviors — to help those who respond. Call 911, the National Human Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888), or local authorities when company policy allows or directs you to do so. And always prioritize your personal safety and the safety of your colleagues and guests. Do not attempt to intervene directly.

Prevue: What resources would you recommend for planners who want to learn more or take action?

Carcaci: There are several reputable resources available. We partner with PACT, which offers industry-focused training and practical tools that help organizations build effective prevention measures. Industry associations such as MPI, PCMA and SITE have also developed specialized anti-trafficking education for meeting professionals. Many local law enforcement agencies and community organizations offer region-specific training as well.

On a practical level, you can deepen prevention efforts by integrating trafficking awareness into sourcing conversations, supplier expectations, and pre-event briefings — ensuring that all partners share the same commitment to safety and awareness.

If you suspect human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline: (888) 373-7888; Text to 233733; www.wearepact.org.