What are Raves?

Raves began as gatherings of thousands and revolved around techno music. They originated in England and were traditionally held in large warehouses or open outdoor areas.

In the late 1980s, the rave scene migrated to the US. By the mid 1990's, there was an appreciable growth of the dance club scene that was widely popular with young persons. Concurrent with that social benchmark was the explosive growth of the Internet, and dance clubs became a popular item of discussion among youth in chat rooms. It was inevitable that the "rave" form of dance club began to flourish at that time along with the rise in the use of Ecstasy.

Usually many participants of raves are not interested in using drugs or taking part in any illegal activity, but the rave scene draws a significant criminal element. Crimes such as pharmaceutical diversion, rape, property damage, and drug sales often occur at raves.

Raves are organized, promoted, and financed by local and national enterprises. Organizers employ bands, disk jockeys, or both. Advertising is via flyers, posters, telephone, radio, and the Internet, which entice the prospective participants. Because alcohol use is not popular, many events are advertised as "alcohol free," giving parents a false sense of security.

Paraphernalia used at raves include: menthol nasal inhalers, Vicks Vapor Rub, eye drops, surgical masks, glow sticks (to enhance the visual effects of Ecstasy); Skittles, M&Ms, or similar candies (to hide the drug); lollipops and pacifiers (to prevent involuntary teeth clenching); water, juice, sports drinks, and soft drinks (sold at inflated prices and used to manage excessive body heat and dehydration) and drug testing kits.

Ecstasy (MDMA) has become such an integral part of the rave circuit that there no longer appears to be an attempt to conceal its use. Rather, Ecstasy (MDMA)is sold and used openly at these parties.

Keywords: rape drugs drug testing

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