"We strongly reject hate, racism, violence and discrimination of any kind"

By Mike Adamson, chief executive, British Red Cross

We have been both saddened and angered by the situation in the US following on from the death of George Floyd in Minnesota, which has sparked protests against injustice and racism around the world and here in the UK.

For us, as a humanitarian organisation, it serves as a vital reminder that we need to work hard, at all times and in every situation, to put time, resource and value into truly listening to people’s experiences.

We believe in humanity. Our teams help people in crisis. But we don’t have all the answers. That’s why our response is always shaped by people who have experienced that crisis.

AS WE WORK TOWARDS BUILDING A SOCIETY BASED ON EQUALITY AND FAIRNESS, WE COMMIT TO CONTINUING TO PLAY OUR PART IN LISTENING AND MOBILISING.

This comes at a time when we know that the coronavirus is taking more lives from black, Asian and minority ethnic communities than any other.  As we work towards building a society based on equality and fairness, we commit to continuing to play our part in listening, learning and mobilising.

And that means truly living and breathing the Fundamental Principles upon which our entire worldwide Red Cross Movement is built – including Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality and Universality. As one Movement, with one voice, we strongly reject hate, racism, violence and discrimination of any kind.

Now more than ever, let’s look out for one another and treat each other with kindness. It’s something we can all do, and it’s what makes us human.