Red Ribbon Week – the nation’s largest and longest-running drug-prevention campaign – is underway across Okmulgee County, bringing a wave of spirited dress-up days and powerful reminders that every young person deserves a healthy, drug-free future.

Observed each year from Oct. 23-31, the annual initiative educates youth on the dangers of substance abuse through activities that promote positive choices, self-worth and community support. This year’s national theme is “Life Is a Puzzle – Solve It Drug-Free!”

The message encourages students to see their lives as a journey where every decision is a piece of the bigger picture – and staying drugfree helps build a better, brighter future.

The campaign began in 1985 following the kidnapping and murder of DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena by drug traffickers in Mexico. His dedication and sacrifice inspired communities to wear red ribbons as a pledge to stand against drug abuse and violence.

By 1988, the movement had grown into the first National Red Ribbon Celebration, led by what is now the National Family Partnership (NFP). Today, millions of children, parents, and educators participate across the country.

NFP continues to champion drug-prevention education and advocacy, empowering families and communities to work together in nurturing strong, healthy, drugfree youth.

Schools throughout Okmulgee County are taking the theme to heart – combining fun with purpose to show students that standing drug-free is something to celebrate.

At Green Country Technology Center, students and staff kicked off activities late last week with Wear Red Day, followed by a comfortable and meaningful Pajama Day celebration.

Flannel pants and fuzzy slippers may have set the vibe, but the goal was clear: students deserve a future full of peace, confidence and drug-free sleep.

Monday continued the fun with Twins Day, pairing up students and staff in matching outfits as a show of unity and collective strength.

Supporting each other makes everyone stronger – and that’s worth matching for.

More themed days continue throughout the week to reinforce teamwork and positive choices.

Morris is turning the school into a puzzle- piece community all week long:

• Monday: Mighty Morris Eagles Soar Over Drugs (Orange & Black)

• Tuesday: Eagles Rhyme for No Crime (Twin Day)

• Wednesday: Red-Out Day (School-Wide Red Attire)

• Thursday: Hats On for Red Ribbon Week

• Friday: Eagles Soar Drug Free (Costume Day) Wilson is also celebrating in bold, kid-friendly fashion:

• Monday: Red-y to Be Drug-Free!

• Tuesday: Drugs Can’t Find Us! (Camo Day)

• Wednesday: Hats Off to Being Drug-Free!

• Thursday: Say Boo to Drugs! (Halloween Costumes) While the week brings lots of laughter and color to local campuses, the mission beneath it remains deeply important.

Substance abuse continues to threaten young lives – but Red Ribbon Week arms students with knowledge, confidence and community backing. Schools, families and youth organizations are united in reminding every child: You are valued. You have purpose. And you deserve a drug-free life.

With each themed day and each red ribbon worn, Okmulgee County students are learning that one person truly can make a difference – just like Agent Camarena believed.