Red Ribbon Week began after the kidnapping, torture and brutal murder of Drug Enforcement Administration agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena in 1985. Agent Camarena had been working undercover in Guadalajara, Mexico for over four years. His efforts led to a tip that resulted in the discovery of a multimillion dollar narcotics manufacturing operation in Chihuahua, Mexico.

The successful eradication of this and other drugs production operations angered leaders of several drug cartels who sought revenge. As a result, they murdered key informants and then, on February 7, 1985, they kidnapped Agent Camarena. Not long after the kidnapping, a passerby discovered the body of Agent Camarena by the side of the road. 

After Agent Camarena was found murdered, citizens in Camarena's hometown of Calexico, California donned red ribbons in his honor. The red ribbon became their symbol for prevention in order to reduce the demand of illegal drugs. In 1988, the first National Red Ribbon Week was proclaimed by the U.S. Congress and chaired by Nancy Reagan.

According to the DEA,  “Red Ribbon Week is nationally recognized and celebrated, helping to preserve Special Agent Camarena’s memory and further the cause for which he gave his life. The Red Ribbon Campaign also became a symbol of support for the DEA’s efforts to reduce demand for drugs through prevention and education programs.”

By wearing a red ribbon during the last week in October, Americans demonstrate their ardent opposition to drugs. They pay homage not only to Special Agent Camarena, but to all men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in support of our nation’s struggle against substance abuse.

Drug Free Action Alliance is proud to lead the Ohio Red Ribbon Campaign in Ohio by carrying on the sacrifice of Agent Camarena.  Red Ribbons can be ordered here and we encourage all citizens to wear this symbol of the importance of drug prevention the week of October 23-31, 2011.

Drug Free Action Alliance also believes that Red Ribbon Week should not be the culmination of prevention activities in your community, but serve as a springboard to other prevention observances through the year.  Drug Free 24/7 is a new program designed by Drug Free Action Alliance to help communities galvanize their efforts into a consistent, year-long message.  Check out how Drug Free 24/7 can be the tool to tie all of the important things you do in your community into an exciting and easily recognizable campaign.