Out of tragedy, a day that will be forever honored in history emerged! On August 19, 2003, a bomb attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, killed 22 people, including Sergio Vieira de Mello, the chief humanitarian in Iraq.  Five years later, in December 2008, the United Nations General Assembly established World Humanitarian Day (WHD), which was first observed on August 19, 2009.

Each year, WHD focuses on a theme, bringing together partners across the humanitarian system to advocate for the survival, well-being, and dignity of people affected by crises, and for the safety and security of aid workers.

This year's theme, “Strengthening Global Solidarity and Empowering Local Communities,” focuses on protecting civilians and aid workers amidst rising conflicts, upholding international law, and demanding accountability for attacks.

The American Red Cross knows the true meaning of this year's theme very well, as 90% of the Red Cross workforce are volunteers! On average, we respond to more than 60,000 disasters every year. Also, the Red Cross invests 90 cents of every dollar in directly delivering care and comfort to those in need. Visit our website to learn about becoming a volunteer.

We see firsthand how families and communities are suffering and depending on us for help — with our volunteers continuously on the ground setting up shelters, arranging for hot meals, and offering comfort for people forced from their homes.

Standing true to our mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering, the American Red Cross calls upon its Fundamental Principles — humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality — to address the ongoing humanitarian need affecting communities all around the world.

It is important to know that each one of us makes an impact in the world as a Humanitarian when it comes to everyday life in our neighborhood (helping a visitor find their way), at the grocery store (helping someone in reaching for an item that they cannot), at the workplace ( speaking up when a coworker is being harassed, bullied or belittled), and by being a voice for those in all areas of the world whose voices has been supressed.

Being a humanitarian at this time is of the utmost importance; it saves lives and gives others hope for the future and in humanity!

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- Written by Samantha Munro