LOS ANGELES, CA (April 24, 2019) – Today, the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) joined Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, Peace Over Violence, local leadership, survivors and advocates at the 20th annual Denim Day press conference and rally to raise awareness around sexual violence. Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Industry Relations of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Troy Flanagan provided these prepared remarks in support of Peace Over Violence’s Denim Day press conference:

“The American Hotel and Lodging Association is proud to recognize the 20th anniversary of Denim Day by standing alongside strong advocates and community leaders who have worked tirelessly to end sexual assault and violence. We are extremely grateful to partner with Peace Over Violence, Mayor Garcetti and everyone here today to further our shared commitment of supporting victims, educating the public and ending sexual violence.

“At AHLA, we believe there is no compromise on the safety and security of our guests and employees. As an industry, we have long been committed to raising awareness and providing hotel operators with new training tools and resources to educate employees on identifying and reporting sexual harassment and assault.

“Building on our efforts, in September, AHLA was proud to partner with major hotel brands to announce our 5-Star Promise, a pledge to provide hotel employees across the U.S. with employee safety devices and commit to enhanced policies, trainings and resources that together are aimed at enhancing hotel safety, including preventing and responding to sexual harassment and assault.

“In honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, AHLA and all our board members, expanded on this commitment by launching a month-long campaign to raise public awareness about sexual assault and reaffirm the hotel industry’s commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all employees and guests.

“Ending sexual harassment and violence is an ongoing commitment that requires each of us to do our part. As a community, standing together, we can all make a positive difference,” concluded Flanagan.