Schools

Area Schools Embrace Red Ribbon Week, Pledge to be Drug-Free

Red Ribbon Week is meant to raise awareness on drug use and problems in communities and runs from Oct. 23 to Oct. 31.

The following press release was issued by the McHenry County Department of Health in regard to Red Ribbon Week: 

McHenry County Department of Health encourages the community to take a visible stand against drugs by celebrating Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23 to 31. 

Red Ribbon Week raises awareness of drug use and the problems related to drugs facing our communities. 

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A project sponsored by McHenry County Department of Health’s Reality Illinois Teens Against Tobacco, three McHenry County middle schools — Creekside,  and Northwood — and five high schools — , Johnsburg, Marian Central Catholic, Woodstock and Woodstock North — tied red ribbons around the trees outside their schools to show commitment to staying free of drug, alcohol and tobacco.

“This campaign gives us the opportunity to be vocal and visible in our efforts to achieve a drug-free community,” said Patrick J. McNulty, McHenry County Department of Health’s public health administrator. “It’s important to remember that parents, educators, and communities are the first line of defense in the fight against drug abuse.” 

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Research shows that children are less likely to use alcohol and other drugs when parents and other role models are clear and consistent in their opposition to substance use and abuse. 

The red ribbon has symbolized a continuing commitment to reducing the demand for illicit drugs in our communities for the last 25 years. In 1985, Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Enrique S. “Kiki” Camarena was killed by drug traffickers.

Shortly after Camarena's death, residents from his hometown of Calexico, Calif. began wearing red ribbons to remember him and commemorate his sacrifice. Congress established Red Ribbon Week in 1988.

“Red Ribbon Week honors Kiki Camarena who, more than 25 years ago, made the ultimate sacrifice fighting drugs. The news of his death touched the nation, and today, millions of young people born well after Kiki’s death wear red ribbons and sign pledges to remain drug-free,” said DEA Administrator Michele M. Leonhart.

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

Visit www.getsmartaboutdrugs.com for more information about Red Ribbon Week or contact McHenry County Department of Health’s Karin Buck at 815-334-4510.


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