CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Hotel employees gathered in Chicago Friday for a training session to recognize the signs of human trafficking.
The meeting at the Sheraton on Columbus Drive was organized by the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association.
The NBA All Star Game is at the United Center on Feb. 16, and studies say instances of human trafficking go up in the host city of a major sporting event.
Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association President and CEO Michael Jacobson said it's important for hotel workers to know the signs of human trafficking.
"Do people walk in with very few personal belongings for an overnight stay? Usually when you check into a hotel you have a bag with you. If you don't, and you're checking in, we immediately pay extra notice to that guest," Jacobson said.
Gov. Pritzker said two dozen state agencies are working together to fight human trafficking. Mayor Lightfoot said her administration is working to fight the conditions that lead to economic exploitation.