Drug Policy Alliance

Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) is a non-profit organization based in New York City, United States. It is committed to promoting drug policies that are grounded in science, compassion, health, and human rights. The organization is actively involved in the legislative process and aims to roll back the excessive laws of the war on drugs, particularly those that are disproportionately affecting certain communities.

History

The Drug Policy Alliance was established in 2000 by merging two organizations: the Lindesmith Center and the Drug Policy Foundation. The Lindesmith Center was founded by Ethan Nadelmann in 1994, while the Drug Policy Foundation was established in 1987. The merger was aimed at creating a unified voice for drug policy reform.

Mission and Goals

The DPA's mission is to advance policies and attitudes that best reduce the harms of both drug use and drug prohibition. It envisions a just society in which the use and regulation of drugs are grounded in science, compassion, health, and human rights. The organization's goals include:

• Ending the war on drugs
• Promoting harm reduction interventions
• Advocating for responsible drug use
• Supporting alternatives to incarceration for drug offenses

Activities

The DPA is involved in a wide range of activities, including policy advocacy, public education, and litigation. It has played a pivotal role in the passage of many drug reform laws at the state and federal levels. The organization also provides resources and support to individuals and communities affected by the war on drugs.

Criticism and Controversy

While the DPA's work has been praised by many, it has also faced criticism. Some critics argue that the organization's approach to drug policy reform is too lenient and could lead to increased drug use and related harms. However, the DPA maintains that its policies are based on scientific evidence and are designed to reduce harm rather than promote drug use.

See Also

• Harm reduction
• War on drugs
• Ethan Nadelmann