The National Minimum Drinking Age Act was passed in 1984. This bill withholds federal funding to states that allow the sale of alcohol to persons under 21 years old. Some states opted to ban consumption completely, even in a private residence or with parental supervision, for anyone under 21 years old. All of the attempts to stop it thus far have been heavily opposed by the group that caused it to begin with, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). America is one of four developed nations to have the drinking age of 21. The drinking age is just a relic of the past and should be returned to 18.
Around the world the drinking age is 18. Even in some predominantly Muslim countries (countries that revolve around a religion that outright bans the consumption of alcohol) the drinking age is 18 or lower! The drinking age in America may be abnormally high, but it doesn’t stop underage drinking from being a social norm. It is, however, a charge unfairly thrown on teens who get caught drinking. Even though in many cases the officer may use their own discretion, it shouldn’t be a situation to begin with. An 18, 19, or 20 year old drinking should be seen in the eyes of the law the same way a 21 year old would.
Alcohol consumption is a global norm, so why deny it to the American youth? Why should Americans have to travel to another country like England or Morocco to be able to go to a bar and order a drink? It cuts roughly 17 million people out of traditional social environments like bars and clubs. As asked time and time again, why are 18 year olds able to serve this country and die in frivolous wars but not allowed to legally consume alcohol? Why threaten 17 million adults with probation and fines for consuming alcohol? Why aren’t all adults treated equally? Why help fake ID practices thrive?
No one should have to go to another country to be treated fairly, whether it be for race, religion, sexual orientation, gender or drinking age. America should join Palestine, England, France, Spain, Germany, Mexico, Morocco, Colombia, Turkey, Greece, Italy, and many other countries in setting the drinking age at 18.
