October 22, 2024
By: Dwayne Page
The DeKalb Prevention Coalition invites the community to take a visible stand against drugs by celebrating Red Ribbon Week from October 23-31.
Red Ribbon Week raises awareness of drug use and the problems related to drugs facing our community, and encourages parents, educators, business owners, and other community organizations to promote drug-free lifestyles.
This year’s celebration will kick off on Wednesday, October 23 with “Displaying Your Red Ribbon” at your business, home or school. Activities scheduled throughout the week include “Wear Red Day” on Friday, October 25.
“Red Ribbon Week” encourages our entire community to adopt healthy, drug-free lifestyles,” said Lisa Cripps, DeKalb Prevention Coalition Coordinator. “The campaign brings together parents, schools, and businesses as we look for ways to keep kids and communities drug free”.
In 1985, Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Enrique S. “Kiki” Camarena was killed by drug traffickers. Shortly after his death, citizens from his hometown of Calexico, California began wearing red ribbons to remember him and commemorate his sacrifice.
The first official Red Ribbon Week celebration was created by the National Family Partnership in 1988. NFP continues to coordinate the campaign for families, schools, and communities across the nation each year. Since then, the red ribbon has symbolized a continuing commitment to reducing the demand for illicit drugs in our communities.
“Red Ribbon Week gives us the opportunity to be vocal and visible in our efforts to achieve a drug free community,” said Jennifer Matthews, DeKalb Prevention Coalition Director.
“Research shows that children are less likely to use alcohol and other drugs when parents and other role models are clear and consistent in their opposition to drug use and the misuse of prescription drugs”.
Visit GetSmartAboutDrugs.com for more information about Red Ribbon Week or contact the DeKalb Prevention Coalition, on Facebook, or phone 615-215-2029.