The Red Ribbon Campaign started over 30 years ago when drug traffickers in Mexico City murdered Drug Enforcement Agency Agent Kiki Camarena. His death inspired the tradition of displaying red ribbons as a symbol of intolerance toward drug abuse.

According to the campaign website, the event is now the largest drug prevention program in the nation, reaching millions of people annually. This year’s Red Ribbon Week runs from Oct. 24-28, and Defense Contract Management Agency will be hosting activities across the agency.

Taylor Anderson, a DCMA wellness and work-life coordinator, encourages all DCMA employees to take part. “It’s an ideal way for employees to unite and take a visible stand against drugs and to start a conversation about drug-use with families, co-workers and community members,” she said.

The agency headquarters will host a 5k awareness walk, a wear red day, as well as special guest speakers and other activities throughout the week. Events at regional offices may vary. Contact your local work-life representative to find out what is happening in your region.

To find out more about Red Ribbon Week participation, click here.