Drug Policy Alliance

The Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) is the leading organization in the United States advocating for the end of the drug war, repairing its harms, and building a non-punitive, just, and regulated drug market.

The DPA strives for a world where the full humanity of all people, regardless of their relationship to drugs, is recognized and respected. Its mission is based on the belief that drug regulation should be grounded in evidence, health, justice, and human rights. By collaborating with other movements and at all levels of policy, the DPA works to change laws, advance justice, and save lives[3][5].

• Campaigns and Advocacy: The DPA conducts campaigns to end the punishment of people who use or sell drugs and instead increase access to addiction treatment and social supports. Its political arm, Drug Policy Action, supports ballot initiatives at the state and local levels[4].
• Community Empowerment: The organization supports groups advocating for drug policy reforms and builds the political power of those most affected by the drug wars[4].
• Education and Awareness: The DPA informs voters about drug policy issues to enable informed decision-making. It disseminates facts, evidence, and stories to educate the public and policymakers about the need for drug law reform[4].
• Research and Expertise: The organization collaborates with academics, researchers, and other experts to develop and promote evidence-based drug policies[4].

• Decriminalization: The DPA advocates for the decriminalization of drug possession and sales, promoting health-oriented approaches instead. A significant success was the passage of Oregon Ballot Measure 110, which made Oregon the first state to decriminalize drug possession and expand access to evidence-based treatments and harm reduction services[5].
• Overdose Prevention: The organization is a leading voice for establishing Overdose Prevention Centers (OPCs) that save lives and connect people to ongoing care[1].