THIS STAR HAS OUR SUPPORT. ALWAYS

The Red Star of David is the symbol of the Magen
David Adom (MDA) in Israel. This organization, like
the American Red Cross, is dedicated to alleviating
suffering and saving lives.As a symbol of peace and
hope, the MDA deserves the same recognition and
privileges available to the 181 national societies
that are part of the International Red Cross and Red
Crescent Movement.

Just like the other Red Cross and Red Crescent
Societies around the world, the MDA also responds
to disasters at home and abroad. The American Red
Cross recognizes MDA as a sister society and is
deeply disappointed that the MDA is not a full
voting member of the International Federation of Red
Cross and Red Crescent Societies ("the Federation")
because it uses the Red Star of David emblem which
is not referenced in the Geneva Conventions.

Sadly, in recent months, misinformation has
been circulating about the American Red Cross'
position regarding MDA's status. Here are the facts:
The American Red Cross is committed to full
membership for the MDA in the Federation

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and within the Movement, and we back this
commitment with more than words. Since
2000, the American Red Cross has withheld $25
million in dues to the Federation in protest of MDA's
non-admission.

The American Red Cross remains steadfastly
determined to secure membership for the MDA,
and we believe our efforts are working. During a
December 2003 meeting in Geneva, the Movement
and governments unanimously adopted a resolution
affirming their commitment to finding lasting
solutions to the Star of David emblem issue. It
is now up to the Swiss government to convene a
diplomatic conference to consider an addition to
the Geneva Conventions, which will enable full
Federation membership for the MDA. The
American Red Cross will not relent until the MDA is
recognized as an equal partner.

We at the American Red Cross want you to know
the facts. To find out more or get involved with
your local Red Cross, visit www.redcross.org/mda
or call 1-866-GET-INFO.

"The American Red Cross under current President and CEO Marty Evans continues to be Magen David Adom's
greatest advocate for its full integration and membership in the International Red Cross system."
The Anti-Defamation League • Jewish Council for Public Affairs

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