[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 146 (Monday, October 25, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2172]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            RED RIBBON WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. BOB BARR

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 25, 1999

  Mr. BARR of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor today to 
recognize youth throughout the nation, and especially in the seventh 
district of Georgia, who will be celebrating ``Red Ribbon Week,'' from 
October 23rd to 31st.
  In 1985, the first Red Ribbon Week was held shortly after the tragic 
murder of Drug Enforcement Agent Enrique ``Kiki'' Camarena. Now, small 
towns and large cities across America take part in Red Ribbon Week, a 
seven-day observance promoting drug-free communities. The message 
during this week is simple, ``just say no to drugs.'' The vibrant red 
ribbons tied around flagpoles, street signs and school yard fences 
remind us together we can do something about drugs and drug abuse in 
our communities.
  Sponsored by the National Family Partnership and observed by numerous 
other public service organizations, Red Ribbon Week has grown from its 
humble beginnings in memory of Camarena's tragic death, into a national 
movement against drugs and drug abuse. In communities everywhere the 
week is observed through rallies, lectures, essay contests and other 
awareness activities.
  In a period such as this, where pro-drug referenda are being voted on 
and some public officials are calling out in favor of drug 
legalization, it is truly outstanding that our young people are uniting 
to show they still know what is right: staying away from drugs. I 
commend all of the young people participating in Red Ribbon Week, as 
well as other anti-drug activities, for taking an interest in improving 
their lives and their communities, now and for the future. If we are to 
ever win the War on Drugs, grassroots efforts such as this are surely 
where we must start . . . and stay.

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