The 14th Amendment is a powerful articulation of our country’s commitment to the equal rights of every person. The #Powerthe14th campaign is meant to encourage us all to learn and be in conversation with each other about this history, the current threats to our rights, and how we can each be the power behind the 14th Amendment. We hope these conversations happen online, in the news, in our homes, and in our organizations and events.
Ratified on July 9, 1868, the 14th Amendment turns 150 years old this year. Originating in the struggle to abolish slavery and ensure the human rights of African Americans, this amendment was passed to apply the fundamental rights in the Constitution to every person, to every citizen, in every state in this country. It is an expression of some of our most important principles. It says that all persons born or naturalized in the United States are citizens. It also provides for equal protection under the law and due process for ALL persons, citizen, and non-citizen alike. Award winning Youth Radio explores the meaning of the 14th Amendment to young audiences and begs the question: How can You Power the 14th?
