Red Ribbon Campaign  

Red Ribbon Week History
The Texans’ War on Drugs Red Ribbon Campaign is a nine day event designed to increase awareness about drug abuse and prevention. The campaign usually runs the last week and a half of October every year. It encourages healthy, drug-free and violence-free lifestyles for all 365 days of the year.
            The ribbon is more than just a ribbon, it is a symbol of awareness; a sign that we choose to strive for DRUG-FREE lives. It is a powerful educational tool that should be utilized not only one week in October, but throughout the year. By wearing a ribbon and saying “NO” to drugs, we can make a difference and prevent future tragedies. Here is how it all began:
            On Thursday, February 7, 1985, Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, a 37 year old U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration agent and father of three sons, made history. He had been investigating a multi-billion-dollar drug scam in which he suspected officers of the Mexican army, police and government. Apparently, as he left his office that Thursday to meet his wife, Mika, for lunch, five men appeared at the agent’s side and shoved him into a car.
Kiki Camarena’s body was found one month later in a shallow grave, 70 miles from Michoacan, Mexico. He had been tortured, beaten and brutally murdered.
            Parent groups in California, Illinois and Virginia, angry and sick of the destruction and killing caused by alcohol and other drugs, launched the first Red Ribbon Campaign, which was proclaimed by the congress of the United States in 1988. Since then, it has become larger and stronger, reaching millions of Americans. No other single drug prevention movement in history has had an impact on so many lives.
            Texans War on Drugs is the official sponsor of the Texas Red Ribbon Campaign. This not-for-profit prevention and education organization provides leadership and support to communities, service clubs and individuals.
            Prevention works but it must be an ongoing commitment. Wearing a ribbon demonstrates your personal commitment. Let’s all be committed to living a drug-free life!


Red Ribbon Week
 
At Dr. Alejo Salinas Jr. Elementary we are committed with the well-being of our students and for that reason we integrate activities to promote a drug-free learning community throughout Red Ribbon Week. Students, parents and teachers come together to conduct such activities which include but are not limited to the following:
Guest Speakers, Week Themes and Contests.
 
Tuesday October 27, 2009:
“We Elect To Be Drug Free” Students and staff wear red clothing.  
 
Wednesday October 28, 2009:
“Team Up Against Drugs” Students and staff wear their favorite team shirt or jersey to show their support.
 
Thursday October 29, 2009:
“Texas kicks out drugs” Students and staff wear western clothing.
 
Friday October 30, 2009:
“Say Boo! To Drugs” Students and staff wear their favorite Halloween costume.
                       
Say No To Drugs!