Students across Stanislaus County joined schools nationwide in observing Red Ribbon Week, an annual campaign promoting drug prevention and healthy lifestyle choices. Held from October 23–31, the weeklong initiative encouraged students with its theme: “Life Is a Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free.”
Since its beginning in 1985, the Red Ribbon campaign has touched the lives of millions of people around the world. In response to the murder of DEA Agent Enrique Camarena, outraged parents and youth in communities across the country began wearing red ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to raise awareness about the devastation caused by drugs in America.
Enrique Camarena was a Drug Enforcement Administration agent who was tortured and killed in Mexico in 1985.
In honor of Camarena’s memory and his battle against illegal drugs, friends and neighbors began wearing red badges of satin. Parents, tired of the destruction caused by alcohol and other drugs, began forming coalitions. Some of these new coalitions took Camarena as their model and embraced his belief that one person can make a difference. These coalitions also adopted the symbol of Camarena’s memory: the red ribbon.
In 1988, the National Family Partnership (NFP) sponsored the first National Red Ribbon Celebration. Today, the red ribbon serves as a catalyst to mobilize communities to educate youth and encourage participation in drug prevention activities. Since that time, the campaign has reached millions of U.S. children and families. The NFP and its network of individuals and organizations continue to deliver Camarena’s message of hope to millions of people every year through the National Red Ribbon Campaign®.
Schools raise awareness with themed spirit days, assemblies, and guest speakers—all aimed at sparking conversations about the dangers of drug use. From elementary schools to high schools, educators emphasize the importance of making safe choices and standing up to peer pressure. At Orestimba High School, the PHAST (Protecting Health And Slamming Tobacco) club promoted the drug-free campaign with festive dress-up days and informational flyers. Club members also created puzzle pieces with facts about the dangers of drug use, which were displayed around campus.
Behind the fun activities lies a serious message: drug use among youth remains a critical concern, particularly with the rise of fentanyl—a synthetic opioid that is 50 times more potent than heroin. Fentanyl is extremely dangerous and often mixed with other substances without a person’s knowledge. Just a tiny amount (as little as two milligrams) can be fatal. According to the Stanislaus County Opioid Safety Coalition, fentanyl-related overdoses have increased in recent years, especially among young people. Law enforcement officials and health educators are urging parents and caregivers to talk openly with children about the risks and to remain vigilant about what teens may be exposed to online or through peers.
Red Ribbon Week also highlights resources available for those seeking help or education. Local organizations such as Stanislaus County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (BHRS) offer prevention programs, counseling, and support groups. The department works with schools to provide mental health and substance abuse education year-round.
Awareness weeks like this are important, but the conversation shouldn’t stop here. Whether it’s fentanyl, vaping, or alcohol, youth need to know they have safe places to turn and that help is always available. Students are encouraged to reach out to parents, teachers, counselors, and school staff if they or someone they know is struggling with drug-related issues.
Parents, teachers, and students are encouraged to continue the dialogue beyond Red Ribbon Week. More information and resources can be found at stancounty.com/bhrs or by calling the county’s 24-hour access line at 1-888-376-6246.
As Red Ribbon Week comes to a close, the hope is that students not only enjoyed the events but also walked away with a clearer understanding of how to stay safe, support their peers, and live drug-free.
