The following was written by COS Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) intern Dani Landivar. Learn more about the ELP here.
Imagine a young student, frustrated by the gridlock in Washington, reading about an Article V convention for the first time. They’re learning that in a country built on self-governance, the power to impact long-term and meaningful change to improve our nation’s way of life lies not just with lawmakers but with everyday citizens. Inspired, they dive into the mechanics of Article V, the part of the Constitution that allows for amendments, and realize that the tools for change have been in their hands all along.
This is not just wishful thinking. It’s real, it’s actionable, and in a world where political overreach often leaves many feeling powerless, it offers a unique opportunity for young people—and really all people— to play a pivotal role in the future of America. Through the process of calling for an Article V convention, we can directly influence the direction of the nation, shaping the country they will inherit. The question is: Are we ready to take that step?
The Constitution is often viewed as an untouchable document, but Article V reveals a remarkable truth: it is designed to change to protect itself. As the Harvard Journal of Law and Public Policy notes, “We do not take oaths to defend our nation, or government, or leaders. Our ultimate oath of loyalty affirms that 'We will to the best of our ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.'” What is the solution when the government oversteps its constitutional limits, increases spending, and prioritizes political careers over preserving, protecting, and defending the Constitution? The Constitution must be amended.
Article V outlines the process for amending the Constitution. While Congress can propose amendments, there is a lesser-known path that gives the people the ultimate power—through an Article V convention. This process allows for a convention to be convened when two-thirds of state legislatures call for it, bypassing the need for Congressional approval. In this way, the very framework of American governance was designed to be flexible, adaptable, and, most importantly, responsive to the needs of the people.
Article V offers a tangible way to initiate change—addressing the threats to our Constitutional republic through the Constitution. But here’s the catch: For this change to happen, it requires people—citizens, activists, and yes, young people—who are ready to step up, take action, and influence the course of American history.
While getting to an Article V convention may sound like a daunting task, it’s not as far-fetched as it might seem. The process of calling for a convention requires a coordinated effort from state legislatures across the country, and while this is no small feat, it is certainly within reach. In fact, the movement for an Article V convention has already gained traction and young people can play a key role in that momentum.
The most powerful way young people can get involved is through the Convention of States movement, which aims to use Article V to propose amendments that impose fiscal restraint on the federal government, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and impose term limits on Congress. By becoming involved in this movement, we not only become part of a growing political effort but also help steer the conversation toward issues that directly affect our generation, like national debt and government accountability.
The power to amend the Constitution through Article V is not just an abstract concept—it’s a tool that can empower young people to be the change-makers of tomorrow. As young Americans who will inherit the consequences of today’s political decisions, it’s essential to realize that we have a stake in the future—and we have the power to make it better. By engaging in the process of constitutional reform, we can ensure that America’s foundational principles of liberty and justice for all are preserved, while also addressing the challenges of tomorrow. It’s a powerful reminder that, even in a world that often seems fractured, we still hold the keys to real, lasting change.
The future of America is not written in stone. It is waiting to be shaped by the very hands of those who dare to believe that change is possible. And with Article V, we, the people, have the unique opportunity to be the ones who write the next chapter. Are you ready to make history?
Sign the COS petition below to get started!
Young Americans and Article V: Unlocking America’s Potential for Change
Published in Blog on January 31, 2025 by Dani Landivar