The Amethyst Initiative

The Amethyst Initiative is a movement launched in 2008 by a group of college and university presidents in the United States. They advocate for lowering the legal drinking age from 21 to 18. The initiative argues that the current law encourages unsafe behaviors and doesn't reduce alcohol consumption among young people. Supporters believe that if 18-year-olds can vote and serve in the military, they should also be allowed to legally drink. The initiative has sparked debate about youth drinking, safety, and personal responsibility, with the aim of re-evaluating alcohol policies in higher education and society.