It’s Red Ribbon Week® (October 23-31)!
The Red Ribbon Campaign® is the oldest and largest drug prevention program in the Nation and a way for people and communities to take a visible stand against drugs. We want to help strengthen our nations! Red Ribbon is intended to be fun and meaningful. Here are 5 ways to get involved:
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- Be the change! You affect other people, even if you don’t think you do. People notice your actions. You have influence. Think about it. What someone sees you do… can change their life. That one choice to be drug-free strengthens you, strengthens others, and strengthens your Nation.
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- Educate, educate, educate. Most Native teens do not use drugs and alcohol. By standing up to pressure, you can strengthen yourself, influence your friends, and strengthen your nation. Talk to your friends, parents, aunties, uncles, whoever will listen! and drop some knowledge. Learn more at wernative.org/my-life/my-body/substance-abuse
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- Talk your parents! Say, “Hey, it’s red ribbon week October 23rd through the 31st. It’s a time to raise awareness and help prevent drug and alcohol abuse. Did you know children of parents who talk to their teens regularly about drugs are 42% less likely to use drugs than those who don’t, yet only a quarter of teens report having these conversations. We understand that you are sometimes second-guessing this generation, but don’t underestimate us! We have the power to change the minds of our peers and adults. We ask that you give us a path to follow. There are too many accidents having to deal with driving while intoxicated and too many overdoses…You want to change our minds about drinking or using drugs? Be The Change!
- Share the video “Never a winning hand” created for Native youth, by Native youth
This article was adapted from the Red Ribbon Campaign. Learn and read more, here!
