Red Cross Offers Free IHL Course in Westfield

To help citizens learn about the framework of protection for combatants and civilians alike in a world where warfare and civil strife are a daily reality for millions, the American Red Cross is offering a free course, International Humanitarian Law: Humanity in the Midst of War, next month in Westfield.

The course, scheduled for Saturday, February 16th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the American Red Cross, 321 Elm Street, Westfield, will examine the body of rules and principals that seek to limit the conduct of war and protect the victims of armed conflict, as well as the unique role of the Red Cross on behalf of victims of war.

“As part of the Geneva Convention, the United States has an obligation to teach International Humanitarian Law to its armed forces and to the civilian population,” says Suzanne Anderson, IHL instructor. “In turn, as a part of our mission, the American Red Cross helps to educate the American public. This course will provide the resources to develop public understanding of and respect for IHL and the Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.”

During this four-hour introductory course, participants learn about the Geneva Conventions by engaging in hands-on activities and thought provoking discussions, and explore the powerful and fundamental concept of human dignity in wartime. The course is free but registration is required. Participants will receive a certificate upon completion.

To register for the course or to find out more information, contact Suzanne Anderson at Suzanne.Anderson@redcross.orgor 908-232-7090 (x2019). Space is limited so please register early to reserve a seat.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org.

About the American Red Cross North Jersey Region 

The American Red Cross North Jersey Region provides programs and services throughout the counties of Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren, with a combined population of 5.7 million. The region trains and mobilizes more than 4,500 volunteers who support the delivery of services in the community. Last year, the Red Cross North Jersey Region responded to 419 local disasters, helping 929 families displaced by home fires; collected more than 28,500 units of blood through blood drives and Red Cross Blood Donation Centers; helped 884 military families send emergency messages, receive financial assistance, and get counseling and referrals; and trained 143,344 individuals with life-saving skills in CPR, AED use, first aid and aquatics. Follow the North Jersey Region social media channels.