Shaheen Statement Commemorating Red Ribbon Week

(Manchester, NH) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) released the following statement commemorating Red Ribbon Week (October 23 – 31, 2016), the nation's oldest and largest drug prevention awareness program. Throughout the month of October, people are encouraged to wear red ribbons to represent the pledge to live drug-free and honor the sacrifice of those have lost their lives in the fight against drugs.

“Red Ribbon Week is an important opportunity to recognize the people across New Hampshire and around our country who are committed to drug-free communities and those who have lost their lives in the fight against illegal drugs,” said Senator Shaheen. “Law enforcement officials, medical professionals, and community activists work day in and day out to protect our communities from drugs, and ensure that people battling substance misuse receive the treatment they need. I hope fellow Granite Staters will take the drug-free pledge this week and continue to support our first responders and providers as they fight the opioid epidemic.”‎

Red Ribbon Week was started after the 1985 death of Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena. In 1988, it became a national campaign sponsored by the National Family Partnership.