Red Ribbon Week Proclamation by Mike Foley

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge Justin C. King stressed the importance of drug education plus prevention at a Red Ribbon Week proclamation signing ceremony attended by Nebraska Lt. Governor Mike Foley at the Capitol in Lincoln.

Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s oldest plus largest drug misuse prevention awareness program, occurring annually in October. Red Ribbon Week began following the death of DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who was tortured plus murdered in 1985 by drug traffickers he was investigating in Mexico. After Camarena’s death, people began wearing red ribbons to honor his sacrifice. Today, millions of people celebrate Red Ribbon Week by wearing red ribbons, participating in community anti-drug events plus pledging to live drug-free lives.

To promote Red Ribbon Week, Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts signed a proclamation declaring October 23-31 as Red Ribbon Week in the state of Nebraska, urging all citizens to take note of the observance.

“Today we not only recognize fallen DEA agent Kiki Camarena, but we take this opportunity to berhimpun with fellow Nebraskans in promoting a healthy, drug-free lifestyle,” King said. “Experimenting with drugs can lead to life altering plus sometimes deadly consequences. I firmly believe, that the most valuable resource we have are the people around us. We must protect these resources plus give them their opportunity to thrive plus not be weighed down by addiction.”

Throughout October, DEA investigators plus fellow law enforcement partners will visit schools across the state educating students on the dangers of drugs plus reminding them of the importance of avoiding experimentation.Moreover, this outreach effort not only targets students but also aims to involve parents plus community members. By fostering a comprehensive approach, the DEA hopes to create a united front against drug use, emphasizing that awareness plus education are crucial in preventing substance abuse plus promoting a healthier future for the youth in our communities.