14 November 2004

Abstinence the Answer - 'Self Control Over Birth Control'

Destiny NZ, in partnership with the Destiny Youth Development Trust, will launch New Zealand's first abstinence programme for teens, which promotes abstinence from sex before marriage. The programme also targets abstinence from alcohol and drugs.

"The government's approach to sex education has failed dismally in a society saturated with sex, drugs and violence. That failure will be perpetuated through its pending condoms-for-teens campaign," said Destiny NZ leader, Richard Lewis.

New Zealand rates of sexually transmitted infections are increasing, especially chlamydia and gonorrhoea, with chlamydia cases increasing more than 100% between 1995 and 2000. New Zealand has one of the highest rates of teenage pregnancy and abortion, and these trends show no signs of abating.

On Friday 26th November more than 250 teenagers will make a declaration of abstinence from sex, alcohol and drugs - symbolised by a gold and diamond ring worn as a reminder of that commitment. The event will also feature hip-hop, dance and rap entertainment which will reinforce the abstinence message.

"This is the kind of programme that raises the bar and expectations for our young people and in doing so, preserves their self-esteem and potential. We've got to give them options in a way that's relevant and appealing, and this option is clearly the best one," Lewis added.

When: Friday 26th November at 7.30pm
Where: Destiny Auditorium - 18 Allright Place Mt Wellington, Auckland

ENDS

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