News Release [printer friendly page]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 15, 2006

FEB 15--(Washington, D.C) The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced today the first-ever Candlelight Vigil to be held at DEA Headquarters in Arlington, Virginia on June 8th, 2006 to 2,500 members gathered for the XVIth Forum of the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA).

The “Vigil for Lost Promise” will be a first of its kind remembrance, and the first of its kind of hope: hope and confidence that our work is shielding others from the great tragedy of drugs. The DEA along with its partners will bring together those who have lost loved ones --and their promise-- to drug use and abuse.

“Every 20 minutes, drugs take another life in this country. Every 20 minutes, the dreams, promise, and talent of another American is snuffed out—leaving families and friends to suffer the darkness of grief,” said DEA Administrator Karen Tandy. "In honor of those lost and in support of those left behind, DEA illuminates the harsh reality of drugs and their tragic consequences. This vigil gives hope for an America without drugs.”

The “Vigil for Lost Promise” will bring together all the important stakeholders -- those who have lost loved ones and those involved in drug prevention, treatment, and education – so that they can unite and make progress together in fighting drug abuse.

The Vigil for Lost Promise will be co-sponsored by CADCA, National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), and Ginger Katz, President of the Courage to Speak Foundation, who will act as the Honorary Chairperson for the event. Eight families who have suffered the loss of a loved one to drugs will also attend the Vigil, representing all of those who have lost family members, friends and children.

For more information about the vigil, or to register for the event, please log on to: www.vigilforlostpromise.com