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Black History is British History

Celebrating Black humanitarians at the British Red Cross

Explore Black British history through our fascinating online exhibition of Black humanitarians at the British Red Cross.

Celebrating our Black history

Black people have made huge contributions to the British Red Cross' life-saving work both in the UK and overseas since we were founded in 1870. Despite this, Black history is often underrepresented in our story and in British history in general.

We want to show our long-term commitment to researching and recognising our Black volunteers, staff and notable humanitarians, who have shaped the world we live in today. This exhibition is an important step towards celebrating their achievements.

View the exhibition.

Help us find out more

Can you help us identify some of the people in the exhibition's images? Do you know of any Black people who worked with the British Red Cross?

Get in touch with us if you can help us with our research into Black history on enquiry@redcross.org.uk.

British Red Cross, UK

From the First World War to the present day, Black people have worked as part of the British Red Cross to help those in need, no matter who or where they are.

British Red Cross, overseas branches

The British Red Cross formed overseas branches in countries which were part of the British Empire. Some remained branches, while countries that later became independent formed their own Red Cross or Red Crescent Societies.

Notable humanitarians

Black people have made significant contributions to the humanitarian sector, showing how the power of kindness can make the world a better place.

  • Mary Seacole, Crimean War nurse

    During the Crimean War, Mary Seacole travelled to Ukraine to treat wounded soldiers on and off the battlefield.

  • Dr Charles Richard Drew

    Dr Drew's research into preserving blood plasma helped save thousands of lives in the UK and US during WWII.

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Thank you and credits

Exhibition curated by Mehzebin Adam and Olivia Cummins.

All images © British Red Cross Museum and Archives unless otherwise stated.

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