Q: What is Red Ribbon Week?
A:The tradition of Red Ribbon Week goes back 23 years and encourages individuals, families and communities to take a stand against alcohol, tobacco and illegal drug use. Students all over the country pledge to live drug and alcohol free during this week. This year it's October 23-31. The tradition of wearing and displaying red ribbons began in Calexico, California after U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency Special Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camerena was assassinated in 1985. The National Family Partnership, which parents across America started in the 1980s in response to the rising level of drug use by kids, adopted the celebration of wearing and displaying red ribbons nationwide to help inform children, families and communities about the destructive effects of drugs. Kids need to make the right decision when it comes to drugs and take pride in being drug-free. This decision is very important because research has shown that the longer that children stay drug-free, the less likely they will become addicted or even try illegal drugs.
Q: How do we help kids make the right choices about drugs?
A:We need to start talking to kids in early adolescence with a simple and understandable anti-drug message. It's important to continue that message as kids grow into adults. This is a case where everyone in the community, starting with parents, needs to do their part. The message is: drugs are dangerous and by using drugs, kids will hurt themselves including those who love them.