The Five-Thirds™ is more than a movement—it’s a powerful declaration that reclaims dignity, asserts humanity, and calls for unity in the face of injustice. Inspired by one of the darkest compromises in American history, the Three-Fifths Compromise of 1787, which dehumanized enslaved Black Americans by legally defining them as only three-fifths of a person, our name and mission flip that equation. We believe those who stand for love, justice, and inclusion are greater than those who promote hate, division, and fear. Thus, we are Five-Thirds™—greater in principle, power, and purpose.
The Five-Thirds™ movement was conceived by Mike Barsella, a technology executive, third-generation U.S. Army veteran, and graduate of West Point (BS) and the Yale School of Management (MBA). Observing overt racial taunting and witnessing government-led efforts to distort African-American history, Barsella coined the term “The Five-Thirds™” or “5/3” as a direct counter to the infamous three-fifths compromise of 1787—which further dehumanized Black Americans by counting them as only a fraction of a person.
In contrast, The Five-Thirds™ flips that equation—those who embrace love and inclusion are “greater than” those who support hate and division. This movement calls upon peace-loving individuals of all ethnicities, genders, and religions to build an America that thrives on unity and respect.
We work to dismantle racial bias and uplift cross-cultural understanding. We believe in building communities grounded in shared humanity, where all people—regardless of race, gender, or background—can thrive together.
In a time when history is being rewritten, silenced, or sanitized, we stand as defenders of truth. We fight to ensure that the full and honest story of African-American contributions and struggles remains taught, preserved, and honored.
We oppose policies and systems that enable racism, inequity, and institutional harm. We advocate for environments—especially for youth—that are safe, inclusive, and rooted in justice.
We believe that lasting change happens when individuals take action. That’s why we champion civic participation, informed voting, and the development of future leaders who prioritize inclusion, empathy, and equity.
