Pamela Lichty

Pamela Lichty is a prominent advocate for drug policy reform and the founder and past President of the Drug Policy Forum of Hawaii (DPFH).12 She established this non-profit organization in 1993 with the aim of educating policymakers and the public about effective approaches to addressing drug issues in Hawaii.1

Professional Background

Lichty has been serving as the President of DPFH since its inception in 1993, dedicating over 31 years to this role.2 The organization advocates for sensible and humane policies that reduce harm, expand treatment options, and adopt evidence-based practices while optimizing the use of scarce resources.1

Education

Pamela Lichty holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, which she obtained between 1985 and 1987.23 This educational background has likely informed her approach to drug policy reform, emphasizing public health perspectives.

Additional Roles and Advocacy

Beyond her work with DPFH, Lichty is involved in various other advocacy and advisory roles:

• Long-time board member of the ACLU of Hawaii
• Co-chair of the Hawaii Syringe Exchange Oversight Committee
• Member of the Advisory Committee to the Women's Rights Division of Human Rights Watch1

Approach to Drug Policy

Lichty's approach to drug policy reform is characterized by a focus on science and evidence-based practices. As a co-founder of DPFH, she emphasizes the importance of scientific research in shaping drug policies.3 The organization she leads works to educate both policymakers and the public about effective ways to address drug-related issues in Hawaii.1

Pamela Lichty continues to be an influential voice in drug policy reform, leveraging her extensive experience and public health background to advocate for more effective and humane approaches to drug-related challenges in Hawaii and beyond.