Posen High School's Red Ribbon Week campaign honors the legacy of DEA agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena, whose tragic death in 1985 inspired the national drug prevention movement.

Red Ribbon Week, observed annually from October 23 to October 31, is the nation’s largest and longest-running drug-use prevention campaign. Posen High School’s Students Leading Students (SLS) group kicked off their celebration with themed sunglasses reading “Life is a Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free” this year’s official slogan. The sunglasses were a hit among students, helping to spark conversations about living drug-free and making healthy choices.

The campaign’s origins trace back to the heartbreaking story of DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. On February 7, 1985, Camarena was abducted in broad daylight outside the U.S. Consulate in Guadalajara, Mexico, just weeks before he was scheduled to return home. He had spent over four years undercover, investigating major drug cartels and contributing to the discovery of a massive marijuana operation in ChihuahuaGet Smart About Drugs. His work threatened powerful drug traffickers and corrupt officials, leading to his kidnapping and murder. His pilot, Captain Alfredo Zavala-Avelar, was also abducted the same day.

Camarena’s death shocked the nation. In response, communities across the U.S. began wearing red ribbons to honor his sacrifice and to promote drug awareness. This grassroots movement evolved into Red Ribbon Week, officially recognized by Congress in 1988. Today, it serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of prevention education.

Posen High’s campaign is part of a broader effort to engage students with meaningful activities, educational resources, and community support. By distributing items like sunglasses and hosting events, schools aim to empower youth to make informed, drug-free choices.