Amerika Rougemont, Reporter
GRANTS, N.M. - The 35th Annual Multicultural Ribbon Relay Run supports drug- and alcohol-free living. Known also as the Red Ribbon Run, the event is dedicated to raising awareness about the devastating impact that substance abuse counties to have on families and neighborhoods.
Each year, communities across the state participate in the relay, hosting their own runs and prevention activities. This year was no exception, with local families, independent living shelters, and wellness programs all contributing to the effort throughout New Mexico. Runners of all ages joined together demonstrating that leading a healthy, drug-free lifestyle is not only possible but also empowering.
“This run is about bringing awareness back into our communities,” Jared Lorenzo, the event organizer said.
The relay has been supported over the years through grants and community leadership, with local organizations like the Independent Living Shelter and cultural wellness programs offering additional support to participants. Activities such as drumming circles, tobacco awareness sessions, and sweat lodge ceremonies are incorporated into the week’s events.
Routes span multiple towns, with participants running through landmarks like Gallup and local cultural centers before passing the symbolic ribbon on to the next team.
For many participants, the relay is more than just a run—it is a living commitment to sobriety and community healing. Mayor Erik Garcia, explained that he will be participating in the run as well, explaining, “I’ve been doing this for five years. It’s been a challenge. I enjoy it… Eleven years I’ve been sober from alcohol… It’s the easiest devil to touch and it’s so fun for about an hour but it’ll ruin your life.”
As the relay continues to fluctuate in participants each year, its message remains clear: through awareness, unity, and healthy living, communities can combat the ongoing challenges of drug and alcohol abuse.
The Multicultural Ribbon Relay Run stands as a celebration of resilience, determination, and collective action against the harm caused by substance abuse—a reminder that when communities come together, change is possible.