SYMBOL HAS SUBSTANCE IN FIGHT AGAINST DRUGS

What is the value of a symbol? In a tangible sense, very little usually. For example, a flag is a symbol identifying a nation, yet the fabric itself does nothing to protect its sovereignity or ensure freedom. However, like the example of a nation's flag, symbols can mean a great deal to people. Consider the case of the fight against drugs, particularly where young people are concerned. Children, who might be introduced to illegal drugs at ages that would startle their parents, need frequent reinforcement that these substances are dangerous. The Cape Girardeau Board of Education took an action last week that sets in motion such a reinforcement.

Acting on initiative taken by local Optimist clubs and the U.S. Attorney's office, the school board approved the designation of drug-free and gun-free zones around public schools. A 1,000-foot radius around school buildings would be marked with signs supplied by the Optimists. The signs, which would also be made available to zones around private schools, will "blanket the area," according to a school official, serving notice that drugs and firearms won't be tolerated within these boundaries.

It goes without saying these signs send the proper message. While illegal drugs have no place in society, they are particularly injurious in the environment of young people. Equally intolerable around children are weapons. Will the signs keep out drugs or guns? Of course not, just as a flag alone won't keep a nation's liberties intact. However, the signs have tremendous potential to contribute to the multi-faceted effort of alerting young people to the dangers of certain activities.

If any portion of the fight against illegal drugs is working to its utmost, it is the educational effort being conducted in the schools. Young people are being told at a very early age that drugs can damage their lives, and the point is hammered home as their education advances. This wasn't the case a generation ago, or even a decade ago. Thanks to a generous and concerned civic organization and a cooperative board of education, this message is being augmented. The signs may only be symbols, but they will contribute to a much larger endeavor that will benefit young people and society.