Red Ribbon Week, happening October 23-31, 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.

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 in remembrance to 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.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has created a social media campaign for October to help spread the word about Red Ribbon’s message of “Living Drug Free.” All throughout the month, the DEA has been hosting and participating in Red Ribbon events throughout the country.

Celebrate Red Ribbon Week by wearing red ribbons, participating in community anti-drug events, and pledging to live a drug-free life.

To learn more, visit: https://www.dea.gov/redribbon

Credit: DEA

Learn more about HazTek Safety Consulting.