State of Alaska > Governor > Proclamations  > Full Proclamation

Red Ribbon Week   Printer Friendly

WHEREAS, across the State of Alaska, families have been plagued by the problems associated with alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use, to the detriment of the health and safety of Alaskan families and communities; and

WHEREAS, Alaska has extremely high substance abuse rates among youth, as well as drug and alcohol related crime, which has proven to be a high cost to society; and

WHEREAS, the use of alcohol and drugs in teenage years has serious consequences for the future of our youth. It affects brain development, and increases risk of suicide. Youth who begin drinking before the age of 15 are four times more likely to have future substance abuse problems than those who wait for the legal drinking age; and

WHEREAS, the opportunities and activities in our children’s lives leave no place for drugs and alcohol. Community involvement and social support systems provide help and guidance; and

WHEREAS, many teens, students, and role models in Alaska are committed to staying alcohol and drug free; and

WHEREAS, there is hope in winning the war on drugs. Hope lies in creating environments where young people can make smart choices concerning alcohol, tobacco, and their futures; and

WHEREAS, it is the goal of the Alaska Red Ribbon Week to involve families, schools, law enforcement agencies, businesses, and other organizations to establish an atmosphere that supports awareness, education, and ongoing initiatives to prevent use of illegal drugs and illegal use of legal drugs.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sean Parnell, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim October 23-31, 2009, as:

Red Ribbon Week

in Alaska, and urge all residents, businesses, public and private agencies, media, religious, and educational institutions to join in Red Ribbon Week’s activities, and to work all year long to protect our young people from the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

Dated: October 23, 2009