The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement was born on a battlefield in 1859, in Solferino, Italy. Henry Dunant, a Swiss businessman, witnessed the aftermath of a grim battle that left 40,000 dead and wounded with few military or local medical services to help them. Horrified by what he saw, Dunant organized local villagers to care for the casualties. He ensured that victims from both sides of the conflict received water, food, and rudimentary medical attention. The impact of this experience changed Dunant's life.
No organization – except the Canadian Red Cross and the medical services of the armed forces has the right to use the red cross emblem in Canada. The red cross emblem must be readily recognized and respected around the world as a trusted symbol of protection and humanitarian aid. Its use is legislated by the Geneva Conventions Act, the Trade Marks Act and the Canadian Red Cross Society Act.
Further information can be found in the Canadian Red Cross Emblem Brochure.
To report misuse of the red cross emblem, please complete the online form.