Prevention    *     Education     *     Awareness

Community Drug and Alcohol Council, Inc.

Red Ribbon began when Enrique "Kiki" Camarena, a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Agent, was killed in the line of duty. Camarena was a fine example of a hero who dedicated his life to fighting the war on drugs. As a DEA Agent, he was required to dangerously go undercover and work closely with the drug-lords of Mexico. Camarena's identity was revealed and his life was taken. When this information became public, people began wearing red ribbons in support of the personal sacrifices made by Camarena and other DEA agents. The act of wearing red ribbons spread across the nation marking the beginning of the Red Ribbon Celebration held each year in October.

Red Ribbon Week is a nationally recognized event whose purpose is for communities to show their commitment to living healthy, drug-free lives.

 Red Ribbon Celebrations  provide the perfect opportunity for communities to unite and publicly abdicate drugs and their abhorrent effects on our country. These celebrations provide prevention education and entertainment with the mission to increase awareness and education on all topics concerning drug abuse.

             Red Ribbon

Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties celebrate Red Ribbon each year with events ranging from health fairs to an anti-drug rally. In 2002 approximately 6500 middle school children attended an anti-drug rally at the Pensacola Civic Center. Speakers included heavy weight champion boxer Evander Holyfield, Lt. Governor Frank Brogan, and DEA Administrator Asa Hutchinson. The children enjoyed the music of the Escambia County Sheriff's Band, Southern Heat, and most importantly, received a valuable message of prevention.

Learn more at www.redribbon.org