The History of DAP

The Story of Enrique "Kiki" Camarena

To understand why the Elks Drug Awareness Program exists, you need to know the story of Enrique "Kiki" Camarena. His sacrifice sparked a movement that continues to save lives today.

A Hero's Journey

Enrique Camarena was born in Mexicali, Mexico in 1947 and grew up in Calexico, California. He served in the United States Marine Corps and later became a firefighter and police officer before joining the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in 1974.

As a DEA special agent, Camarena was assigned to the Guadalajara Resident Office in Mexico, where he worked undercover investigating major drug trafficking operations. His investigations led to the discovery of a massive marijuana plantation in Chihuahua, Mexico—one of the largest ever found—valued at $8 billion.

The Ultimate Sacrifice

On February 7, 1985, Kiki Camarena was kidnapped by drug traffickers as he left the U.S. Consulate in Guadalajara. He was tortured for information about his investigations and murdered. His body was found on March 5, 1985, one month after his abduction.

Camarena was 37 years old. He left behind his wife, Mika, and three sons.

Red Ribbon Week is Born

In response to Camarena's death, his hometown of Calexico, California began wearing red ribbons to honor his memory and show their commitment to a drug-free lifestyle. This simple act of remembrance grew into a national movement.

By 1988, the National Family Partnership organized the first nationwide Red Ribbon Week celebration, which now reaches millions of students each October. The red ribbon remains a symbol of the commitment to live drug-free and to honor those who have sacrificed their lives in the fight against drugs.

The Elks Take Action

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks had long been committed to youth programs, and the drug crisis of the 1980s demanded action. In 1983, just two years before Camarena's death, the Elks established the Drug Awareness Program (DAP) as their flagship youth protection initiative.

The timing was significant. The crack cocaine epidemic was devastating communities across America. Drug use among teenagers had reached alarming levels. Parents, teachers, and community leaders were desperate for solutions.

DAP's Growth and Impact

What started as a grassroots effort by concerned Elks members has grown into one of the nation's most impactful drug prevention programs:

• 1983: DAP founded with a focus on education and prevention
• 1990: Partnership with DEA established, bringing federal resources and expertise
• 1998: Expanded curriculum to address emerging drug trends
• 2005: Added prescription drug abuse education as opioid crisis emerged
• 2015: Updated materials to address vaping and synthetic drugs
• 2020: Developed virtual presentation capabilities during pandemic
• Present: Over 10,000 Elks volunteers reach millions of students annually

Why History Matters

When you stand before a classroom of students, you carry forward a legacy that began with Kiki Camarena's sacrifice. You are part of a movement that has prevented countless young people from making decisions that could destroy their lives.

Understanding this history gives your presentations purpose and authenticity. You're not just sharing information—you're continuing a mission that has saved lives for over four decades.