World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day

From The President of the Alumni Association of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Dear Alumni,

The 8th of May [was] World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day. The theme for this year is: "ON THE SIDE OF HUMANITY".

It is a call to celebrate those who give their time-and sometimes their lives - to alleviate the suffering of others, and also to protect their human dignity.

In a time of widespread crises, it is a reminder of the daily dangers faced by humanitarian workers,  and their great courage.  A reminder of our collective obligation to ensure their life saving work is fully respected and protected.

Even in the darkest of times, the signs of Humanity shine brightly.

A brief film for May 8^th https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=2wbSBFBStUI

"ON THE SIDE OF HUMANITY" celebrates the incredible commitment every day of millions of Volunteers and Staff worldwide: The Movement is the world's first and largest humanitarian organization (191 countries with active National Societies).

May 8^th also   draws attention to the seven Fundamental Principles of the Movement:

HUMANITY                                                                        VOLUNTARY SERVICE

IMPARTIALITY                                                                  UNITY

NEUTRALITY                                                                     UNIVERSALITY

INDEPENDENCE

Humanity is the foundation of all humanitarian action. Without Humanity, the Fundamental Principles would be meaningless. 

For more on the Fundamental Principles, please see 

https://www.ifrc.org/who-we-are/international-red-cross-and-red-crescent-movement/fundamental-principles

The idea of World Red Cross Red Crescent Day first appeared after World War 1 at the 14^th International Conference (1934). It was agreed there should be "An annual action that could take hold in the whole world, that would be a major contribution to peace".

The 8^th of May was chosen as the birth date of the founder of the Movement, Henry Dunant (May 8,1828).

The first Day was celebrated on 8^th May, 1948. It was called "International Red Cross Day". The official title became "World Red Cross Red Crescent Day" in 1984.

With best regards on this important day,

Michael Stone

President IFRC Alumni

IFRCalumni@outlook.com