Drugs: Costs and Consequences

Since 2002, 16 venues have hosted the DEA Museum’s traveling exhibit, Drugs: Costs and Consequences. Developed by the Museum, the DEA Educational Foundation, and other national partners, the exhibit has been visited by more than 20 million people. A large number of attendees have been school children and families.

The 5,500-square-foot exhibit includes 32 interactives and 13 sections of comprehensive graphic panels, artifacts, dioramas, and experiences with content that covers manufacturing, money laundering, terrorism (including pieces of the Twin Towers from Ground Zero), and law enforcement. The exhibit also covers science and addiction; what drugs do to the body and brain; and the consequences of illegal drugs on communities, families, and American life. Each venue receives a customized area that explores illegal drug issues in that specific community.

Drugs: Costs and Consequences is a springboard for community conversation and action to learn about illegal drugs and their costs to the environment, human health, public safety, family life, and so much more.

The DEA Museum is exploring possible new venues for this exhibit, which often comes with funds for a full-time Educator/Coordinator, samples of state-specific Standards of Learning, money to reimburse schools for buses, set up and deinstallation professional assistance, and a customized area in the exhibit to tell the story of DEA and drugs in your area.

Venues have included museums and science centers, as well as other public spaces. A community Steering Committee is formed in each city as planning begins to bring the exhibit to a venue. A complete description and background of this free exhibit can be found at www.drugexhibit.org.