Exhibit from the Drug Enforcement Administration  explores the many costs and consequences of illegal drugs

— The Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA’s) traveling museum exhibit, Target America: Opening Eyes to the Damage Drugs Cause, is coming to the Big Easy at the request of Lieutenant Governor Mitch Landrieu. Installed at the Louisiana State Museum’s Old U.S. Mint Building, the 10,000-square-foot exhibit opens on March 3 and runs through November 24. Target America explores the science behind illegal drug addiction and the myriad costs of illegal drugs—to individuals, American society, and the world.

“It is a privilege to bring DEA’s premier exhibit to one of America’s greatest cities, and to have it displayed in such an historic venue as the heart of New Orleans,” said Michele M. Leonhart, Acting Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration. “More than 15 million people of all ages have already visited Target America in other cities. Now, the people of the Crescent City will see for themselves how illicit drugs affect all Americans. It will open their eyes to the real story of how drugs are produced; the role of terrorists, traffickers, and gangs in the drug trade; the heartbreak drug addiction causes addicts and their families; and how the brave men and women of DEA are working with our law enforcement partners in every community to stem this cycle of violence and pain.”

Lieutenant Governor Landrieu sought the opportunity to display Target America in New Orleans. “ The national exhibit presented an opportunity to dramatize the impact of drugs in our own neighborhoods,” he said. “The Louisiana State Museum drew on its extensive collection of artifacts and curatorial expertise to produce the locally-themed exhibits. Meanwhile, the museum’s education staff has designed quality programs to reach children and families with a strong prevention message. It’s a great example of how our cultural institutions can address serious social issues and help build healthier communities.”

For full story and details of the event please visit us at www.dea.gov.