The New York branch of the Foundation for a Drug Free World, a group held a ceremony Friday night, June 25, to honor almost a dozen groups and citizens who have worked effectively towards stemming a deadly epidemic.
New York joined chapters of the group worldwide in marking the United Nations International Day Against Illicit Drugs and Trafficking, by giving awards to key New Yorkers who have taken the lead in the fight against illicit drug use.
State Senator Reuben Diaz, Sr. was honored for his consistent and vocal position against illegal drug use, citing the damaged they are doing to our youth, families and community.
Most recently, he asked Mr. Frederica Perez, a key figure in the National Puerto Rican Day Parade, to present the Truth About Drugs material, to the New York State Hispanic Caucus. He then introduced the material to the NY Hispanic Ministers Association in the Bronx and through them, to another ministers association in Brooklyn. By this time clergy and community leaders had pledged to take the message, and the facts, to thousands more New Yorkers.
Meghan Fialkoff, head of the New York Chapter of the Foundation, sponsored by the Church of Scientology, said “Even with the most effective materials, it takes live communication – with heart, courage, and energy – to really turn the tide of drug use. Tonight we want to honor some of those who – using our materials, or just sharing our goals and our commitment – are working effectively for a drug-free world.” and spoke about the Foundation’s making The Truth About Drugs educational materials available to all.
Mr. Tommy Soto accepted the award for Senator Diaz as the Senator was kept in Albany at the last moment – working on the State budget.
Additional awardees included Abukkariem Shabazz, Founder and CEO Phase Piggyback, Police Officer Iris Mercado, from the Midtown North Precinct; Ms. Sherry Thomas, Veritas, Inc.; Mr. Michael Zotto, retired NYPD Detective and head of The Strategic Protection Group; Loretta Parsons- Poole, representing OASIS, for their “Your Story Matters” program; and Sandra Marguez, of Volunteers of America.
The United Nations International Day Against Illicit Drugs and Trafficking was established in 1987 by UN resolution 42/112 to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving an international society free of drug abuse. For more information about how the Foundation For A Drug-Free World is helping to forward this mission, visit theri website here.
