How Is Your Community Observing International Day Against Drug Abuse?

For many years, countries around the world have participated in the June 26 observance of International Day Against Drug Abuse (IDADA). Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1987, this day serves as a reminder of the goals agreed to by Member States of creating an international society free of drug abuse. Now, the observance has been gaining steam here in the United States, with several communities already planning activities during the week of June 26.

This year’s theme is “Do drugs control your life? Your life. Your Community. No place for drugs.”

To help your coalition get involved in IDADA, CADCA has developed some tools that you can use, such as a sample proclamation that you can tailor to your community and a sample media advisory. In addition, there is an online registration form that you can submit to let CADCA know what your coalition is planning. This will enable CADCA to help promote your event. As an incentive, all coalitions that register their activity with CADCA will be entered in a drawing for a free Flip camera!

CADCA, as a Non-Governmental Organization that enjoys Special Consultative Status with the United Nations, encourages all community coalitions to get involved in this important observance.

International Day against Drug Abuse represents a wonderful opportunity for you to highlight the outstanding work that your coalition is engaged in to reduce and prevent drug use in your local community.

Here are some ideas:

• Sponsor a “drug take back” day, town hall meeting, rally, walk/run against drugs, candlelight vigil or other event
• Have your county or city issue a proclamation for the date
• Insert the International Day into your awareness campaigns
• Link up with local civic organizations
• Work with your National Guard – either/or Drug Demand Reduction (DDR) or Prevention, Treatment & Outreach (PTO) office
• Hold a press event
• Publicize the International Day through your social media sites
• Sponsor a youth activity

To register your activity or event, and to download tools and resources, visit http://www.cadca.org/content/international-day-against-drug-abuse.

Let’s show the world how U.S.-based community coalitions are observing International Day Against Drug Abuse!