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Mission
The American Red Cross is a
humanitarian organization led by volunteers and guided by its Congressional
Charter and the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross Movement,
will provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare
for, and respond to emergencies. There is more than a century of tradition
behind the Red Cross emblem as a symbol of protection.
Fundamental Principles
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Humanity: The
International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, born of a desire to bring
assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield,
endeavors, in its international and national capacity, to prevent and
alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purpose is to
protect life and health and to ensure respect for the human being. It
promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace
amongst all peoples.
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Impartiality: It
makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or
political opinions. It endeavors to relieve the suffering of individuals,
being guided solely by their needs, and to give priority to the most urgent
cases of distress.
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Neutrality: In
order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the Movement may not take
sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political,
racial, religious or ideological nature.
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Independence: The
Movement is independent. The National Societies, while auxiliaries in the
humanitarian services of their governments and subject to the laws of their
respective countries, must always maintain their autonomy so that they may
be able at all times to act in accordance with the principles of the
Movement.
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Voluntary service:
It is a voluntary relief movement not prompted in any manner by desire for
gain.
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Unity: There can
be only one Red Cross or Red Crescent Society in any one country. It must be
open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian work throughout its
territory.
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Universality: The
International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, in which all Societies
have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping
each other, is worldwide.
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