The American Red Cross helps people around the world prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies––natural or manmade disasters, global conflict resulting from war or other violence, life-threatening health situations. This humanitarian effort is accomplished by working with The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the world's largest humanitarian network, and The International Committee of the Red Cross. The collaborative effort of all three organizations is guided by the seven Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross: Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity, and Universality.
An essential part of our mission at The American Red Cross in Greater New York (ARC/GNY) is to increase awareness of the Red Cross’s global mission. The primary way in which the Chapter accomplishes this objective is by providing free classes to the public on various subjects relating to the Red Cross’s International Services. The classes are as follows:
- International Humanitarian Law
Learn about the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, the world’s largest humanitarian organization, and their purpose and presence in almost every country throughout the world. Understand the role of the American Red Cross and its partner National Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies. After a review of the historical framework of each the Movement’s components, the class will focus on their respective roles and activities as they fulfill the humanitarian mission of the Red Cross. - The Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross
This class provides an in-depth look at the Fundamental Principles that guide the Red Cross in all of its actions. The first half of the class examines the Oxford Principles of 1946, the original Principles of the Red Cross and the role played by the seven Principles in the Red Cross’ current and past activities. The second half of the course offers a detailed analysis of each of the seven Fundamental Principles, including its definition, components and the values upon which each is based. - The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
Learn about the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, the world’s largest humanitarian organization, and their purpose and presence in almost every country throughout the world. Understand the role of the American Red Cross and its partner National Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies. After a review of the historical framework of each the Movement’s components, the class will focus on their respective roles and activities as they fulfill the humanitarian mission of the Red Cross.
Note: All classes are free of charge. Although there are no prerequisites, it is recommended that you take "From Principles to Actions" class before "The Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross" class and "The International Red Cross and Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement" before the "Movement in Action" class.
