PRIDE Launches Annual Red Ribbon Event

PRIDE Bermuda had its 17th Annual Red Ribbon Official Launch on Wednesday [Oct 22] at City Hall Hamilton. Red Ribbon celebrates all organisations, service agencies, teachers, religious communities, parents and families who have played a part in preventing drug abuse with our youth.

A spokesperson said, “The theme for this year’s campaign is Bermuda Strong: High on Life! This theme is quite fitting considering the high spirits of the people of Bermuda and their determination to get back to normalcy as quickly as possible after taking a double blow from tropical storm Fay and then Hurricane Gonzalo.

“Red Ribbon brings a focus that each of us can play a positive part in the life of a child.”

“Our goal is to STOP drug abuse before it starts and to continue the message that preventing drug abuse builds a stronger healthier community”, says Judith Burgess, PRIDE Bermuda’s Executive Director.

“We know the devastating effects of Drugs and Alcohol on our community. The cost of treatment, which is necessary to help those individuals to get back on track to lead productive lives, far outweighs the cost of prevention. Like Grandma always said, “An ounce of Prevention is worth a pound of Cure”.

“Treating the costly effects of drug abuse on our community can be significantly reduced by allocating more resources to effective prevention and intervention programmes.

“The evidence–based LifeSkills Training prevention Program, designed to increase self-esteem, make healthy decisions and develop drug resistance skills, have been confirmed to make a difference on our island:

• The 2011 National Student Survey showed a reduction in drug use amongst our students, aged 12-18.
• An increase in awareness and positive change in attitudes has shown among participants.

“These findings are consistent with U.S data that shows that effective prevention programs have a positive social and financial value:

• Students have been shown to delay initiation by up to 2 years.
• The 2008 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA] report indicates that for every $1 spent, $18 could be saved. When expanded, the fiscal impact involves a savings of $1.3 billion, within 2 years, a reduction of substance abuse–related social costs and lost productivity over a lifetime by an estimated $33.5 billion.

“We believe that by building Youth LifeSkills, we will increase their ability to avoid drug use.

“All were invited to join the celebration which Kicked-off with the Official Launch on the Steps of City Hall from 12:30 p.m. until 1:30 p.m.. The first 100 persons wearing RED were treated to a “Red Bag Lunch” and additional giveaway items.

“The Governor, Premier, Mayor of Hamilton, Bishop Dill, the Oppositions Michael Weeks and the US Consul General were all in attendance and addressed the public on the importance of drug prevention and the significant work that is being done by PRIDE in partnership with other organisations in the community.

“In a ‘Call to Action’ read by 11 year old Nazarah Bridgewater, the public was urged to “Figure out what ignites your passion, stay positive, get involved in solution-based efforts and Help out in your community where you see a need”.

“Additionally, all were entertained by our students from Francis Patton and Heron Bay Primary Schools, alumni and friends with a special performance by our Red Ribbon Song/Spoken Word Competition winner, 11 year old Ashley Stephens.

“As an added treat, Ashley’s Lemonade was on hand, selling red lemonade with all proceeds going to PRIDE. More than 100 adults were in attendance with an added bonus of school students.

“On Friday, October 24 we are asking the public to wear their Red in support of our young people and drug prevention. Many of our businesses have purchased these Red Ribbon Packs for their staff; additional supplies are still available at the PRIDE Office.”

“We are urging parents and members of the Bermuda community to participate in drug awareness and to educate themselves and their children about the positive effects of drug prevention, while supporting the efforts of PRIDE Bermuda. Collectively, we can make a difference in the lives of Bermuda’s young people.” Says, Mrs. Burgess.

“The Red Ribbon Campaign began in 1988 in honour of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena who was kidnapped and killed in Mexico in February of 1985.

“Mr. Camarena had uncovered a multi-billion dollar drug scam in which he suspected officers of the Mexican army, police forces and government of being involved. His tragic death led to an outpouring of sympathy around the world and led to a formalized campaign of hope in Mr. Camarena’s honour.

“For our 2014 PRIDE Red Ribbon Campaign, we wish to thank our Principal Partner, The Bank of Bermuda Foundation, Contributing Partners, Ace Foundation and The Phoenix Stores Ltd.”

For more information about the Red Ribbon Campaign, or to get involved, call PRIDE Bermuda on 295-9970 or email info@pride.prevention.bm.

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