ORLANDO, FL - As a result of the hard work and dedication of Ally Hall, a 14-year-old student in Lebanon, Ohio, Governor Taft has signed a proclamation declaring February 14, 2005, the Day of Purity throughout the state. He encourages youth to "show their support for abstinence and promote healthy and happy lifestyles." His message echoes that of youth around the world who have thanked Liberty Counsel for organizing the Day of Purity. Youth are tired of hearing the message that it's unrealistic to expect them to abstain. The Day of Purity is designed to offer youth of all ages, including those at the elementary and college levels as well as young adults, the opportunity to send a loud message that they can and will delay sexual activity until marriage. On February 14, 2005, youth around the world will make a public statement for sexual purity as they participate in the second annual Day of Purity.

The good news for parents is that what we are teaching our youth at home is making a difference. A recent NBC News and People Magazine poll reveals that 87% of teens aged 13 to 16 are not sexually active. Forty-two percent (42%) of teens who are not sexually active attribute that choice to religious or moral beliefs. Unfortunately, countless youth are caught up in the lie that sex outside of marriage is healthy, safe and normal. Our youth deserve the truth about the physical, emotional and spiritual consequences of their choices to engage in sex before marriage.

It's not too late to get involved. The Day of Purity web site, DayOfPurity.org, allows anyone to download a planning manual and informative flyers on a variety of topics for distribution, order a Day of Purity T-shirt, and review startling statistics concerning the effects of early sexual activity. On the Day of Purity, youth are encouraged to wear a Day of Purity T-Shirt or white clothing to symbolize sexual purity. Call 1-800-671-1776 for more information.

Rena Lindevaldsen, International Coordinator for the Day of Purity, commented, "Last year I appeared on CNN about the First Annual Day of Purity. A prominent feminist activist told me on that show 'shame on you' for promoting the Day of Purity. I say, shame on all of those who tell our youth that they do not have the willpower to delay sexual activity until marriage, or who lie to our youth about the consequences of sex outside of marriage."

Mathew Staver, President and General Counsel of Liberty Counsel, said: "Now is the time for everyone who is concerned about the moral depravity of this culture to stand with our youth. Parents, churches and community leaders need to do everything possible to rid our schools of the so-called 'safe-sex' message."