Red Ribbon Week in Jersey City

October 25, 10:32 AMJersey City Community ExaminerAmani Harrison

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Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena 

At its meeting of October 22, the Jersey City Council passed a resolution authorizing the celebration of October 23 through October 31 as Red Ribbon Week. 

Red Ribbon Week is held in memoriam of Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena. who was murdered by a Mexican drug cartel in 1985.   Working as an undercover agent for the DEA in Guadalajara, Mexico, Agent Camarena's investigations had led to the successful eradication of the drug production operations of certain Mexican cartels.  The leaders of these drug cartels sought and carried out their revenge through the kidnapping, torture and murder of Agent Camarena.

After the death of Agent Camarena, many people wore red ribbons to symbolize their commitment to to helping reduce the demand for drugs in their communities.  This symbolism grew into the movement that has become known as the Red Ribbon Campaign.  

During Red Ribbon Week schools and communities attempt to highlight and support their annual programs  and service for the prevention, early intervention and treatment of drug use and drug-related violence.  The week-long campaign provides opportunities for students, parents, teachers and others to join together to address the alcohol, tobacco, other drug and violence related issues or concerns in their community.