Special to the Advance

What is the Point of Red Ribbon Week?

The annual Red Ribbon Week campaign was sparked by the death of Special Drug Agent Kiki Camarena, a Mexican-born American undercover agent for the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

While on assignment in Mexico, he was abducted and murdered in the drug war battle.

Within weeks of his death, leaders and friends in California where he lived, pledged to lead drug-free lives to honor the sacrifices made by Camarena and others on behalf of all Americans.

These groups continued to grow, leading to then First Lady Nancy Reagan proclaiming the Red Ribbon campaign as a symbol of support for the DEA’s efforts to reduce demand for drugs through prevention and education programs. More than 80 million Americans show their commitment to a healthy, drug-free lifestyle by wearing or displaying the Red Ribbon.

Perdido School students in Pre-K through eighth grades dressed out of uniform each day the last week of October in support of the day’s slogan.

“Punch Out Drugs” – Superhero Day

“Drugs Can’t Find Me” – Camo Day

“Lasso Drugs” – Cowboy/Cowgirl Day

“Team Up Against Drugs” – Favorite Team Jersey Day

“Red Our Drugs” – Wear anything ‘red’