The National Red Ribbon Campaign was inspired by the murder of DEA Special Agent Enriqué (“Kiki”) Camarena by drug traffickers.  In March 1985, within weeks of his death, “Camarena Clubs” were launched in high schools in the Imperial Valley, Kiki’s home.  Hundreds of club members pledged to lead drug-free lives to honor the sacrifices made by Kiki and others on behalf of all Americans.

That spring, two club members presented the “Camarena Club Proclamation” to then-First Lady Nancy Regan. It received national attention through the National Federation of Parents who organized the first National Red Ribbon Week. Later that summer, parent groups in California, Illinois and Virginia began promoting the wearing of Red Ribbons nationwide during late October.

Today, the Red Ribbon Campaign is a catalyst and symbol for millions of Americans who support positive and healthy communities nationwide