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The Red Cross Salutes Contributions of Black Americans This Month


Black History Month centers around the outstanding achievements of Black Americans. With the theme “Black Excellence is in Our Blood,” the American Red Cross honors the vibrant legacies of trailblazers whose collaborative spirit of excellence continue to shape their humanitarian mission.

Frederick Douglass, a prominent Black abolitionist and author who escaped slavery, supported Clara Barton's efforts to establish the American Red Cross. Having been impressed by Barton’s aid to Black soldiers during the Civil

War, and her desire to improve the protection of the wounded during wartime, Douglass signed the original Articles of Incorporation for the Red Cross in 1881.

Howard University, one of the nation’s top Historically Black College or University (HBCUs), formed its Red Cross Unit in March 1917 under the leadership of Red Crosser Hallie E. Queen. Determined to aid the war effort, students met daily to make 1,000 hospital supplies before the semester ended, and coordinated entertainment for Black soldiers stationed at Fort Meade. Howard University carries on this tradition today through its Red Cross Club, which hosts blood drives and completes community service projects.

Dr. Charles R. Drew, a surgeon and pioneer of modern blood banking, was named the first medical director of the Red Cross National Blood Collection Program in 1941. His work with the Red Cross helped save the lives of hundreds of thousands of soldiers and civilians during World War II. Dr. Drew’s efforts to increase the blood supply led to the use of bloodmobiles and other collection, preservation, and distribution processes still used today.

Commemorate Black History Month by rolling up a sleeve to give blood. Use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or RedCrossBlood.org/OurBlood or call 800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) to schedule an appointment today.

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