Beginning Monday, the city of Troy will take part in the national fight against drugs — Red Ribbon Week.

Troy Mayor Jimmy Lunsford met with members of the Troy Police Department to declare the week of Oct. 26 to 30 Red Ribbon Week in the city of Troy.

“For two decades, Red Ribbon Weed has been used by law enforcement, educators and community leaders to teach children and youth an important lesson: say no to drugs. Say yes to healthy lifestyles,” said Troy Police Chief Anthony Everage.

Everage said Red Ribbon Week is dedicated to a federal drug enforcement agent, Enrique Camarena, who was killed by drug traffickers in Mexico in 1985.

“In response to his death, angered parents across the country began wearing red ribbons to symbolize their commitment toward the creation of a drug-free America,” Everage said.

It was declared officially by Congress in 1988 that the last week of October would from then on become Red Ribbon Week.

Throughout the week, officers of the Troy Police Department will be speaking with local schools to educate on the importance of staying drug-free.

“Officers with the Troy Police Department will be participating in drug education and awareness programs in Troy area schools during Red Ribbon Week,” Everage said. “It is important that we educate children that staying healthy and drug free is a positive choice they can make themselves.

“Plan to have your children join millions of others across the country that says with pride: ‘The Choice for Me is Drug Free.’ Now, more than ever, we must continue to wage war on drugs in our communities.”