Beneath this unassuming spot lies a vital resource. This is Pozo Cruz Roja. It is a well providing essential drinking water.
Let’s delve into the story of the Mexican Red Cross and its connection to humanitarian aid. The Mexican Red Cross began its journey in 1898. The Spanish Red Cross inquired about Mexico’s emergency services.
In 1907 President Porfirio Díaz signed a decree. Mexico agreed to the Geneva Convention. This improved care for the wounded in battle. In 1909 the first board of the Mexican Red Cross was established. They assisted in the Monterrey floods.
The success led to official recognition in 1910. A presidential decree recognized the Mexican Red Cross. International recognition followed in 1912. The International Committee of the Red Cross recognized the organization.
The Mexican Red Cross operates year round. It assists in disasters and acts as an Emergency Medical Service. Mexican law authorizes it to give first aid. This applies to those hurt in accidents or crimes outside big cities.
The Red Cross is financed by private donations. It severed ties with the army. The army shifted emergency care to the Cruz Roja Mexicana. It became the sole caregiver. Governments usually handle and pay for such situations.
The Mexican Red Cross maintains hospitals in major cities. Municipal Hospitals also exist in larger cities. However, IMSS hospitals serve those who can pay a yearly fee. Others turn to the Red Cross or Municipal Hospital for free care.
Emergency health care is good in big cities. This is not always the case in smaller towns and villages. People outside large municipalities depend on the Red Cross. They provide emergency care and transport to hospitals offering free service.
The Mexican Red Cross also offers training. They train emergency medical technicians. Course requirements include being over 18 and having a high school diploma. Good health and fitness are also needed.
Training in medical specialties began in 1910. Short courses in first aid were offered. Soon after, nursing courses began. These took place at two hospitals in Mexico City.
In 1925 courses adapted to the Secretariat of Public Education’s needs. The Escuela Clínica de Enfermeras de la Cruz Roja Mexicana was founded. The first graduate received a scholarship. She went to London for an instructor’s course.
In 1936 the school joined the National Autonomous University of Mexico. It became the first of its kind at the university level. It remained part of the university until 1998.
The university established the Escuela Nacional de Enfermería y Obstetricia. It is semi-autonomous from the main university system. Over the years, the Mexican Red Cross has participated in many efforts. These efforts relate to disasters and public health.
In the 1980s the organization provided relief. They helped refugees from Guatemala in Chiapas. They also participated in relief efforts after hurricanes. A major event was the 1985 Mexico City earthquake. Rescue brigades appeared shortly after.
The damage and death were more than they could handle. There were too few people. Many lacked equipment like spikes and sledgehammers. There were also shortages of medicines and blood.
The Mexican Red Cross aids other countries too. They participated in relief efforts after Hurricane Katrina. They sent food and other supplies.
So, as we stand here by Pozo Cruz Roja, remember its connection. It is connected to an organization that has provided aid. This aid has been given during national and international crises. The Mexican Red Cross continues to serve. It embodies humanitarian principles.