Purity, or chastity rings, originated in the United States in the 1990's among Christian-based, sexual abstinence groups. The ring is usually inscribed with phrases like "True Love Waits", "I will wait," or biblical phrases which embody the concept of virginity until marriage. Although these rings originated in Christian groups and communities, they have expanded their way into American culture, and in particular teenage culture, as a whole. Rings are often given by parents or family members to their children. There are also several organizations like WAITT and Silver Ring Thing that tour to educate teens about the importance of abstinence while providing them with rings when they are done with the program. By wearing the ring, the wearer is promising to remain a virgin until he or she is married. The rings are more than just a verbal vow or a flimsy and forgettable promise; they are a visual message that can be seen and read by others, spreading the idea that it is possible to wait.
Because of their nature and the Christian and overall moral values that these rings represent, they are highly important in popular culture. Celebrities like the Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus, Hilary Duff, Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, and Jordin Sparks have all publicly
announced and advocated their use of the purity rings. Most of these stars are or have been Disney stars, both on TV and on the radio, so they are the most relatable source for children and teenagers. These stars are who the younger generations listen to or watch on television, making them have an influential role on their adolescence. When preteens and teens see their role models take a
certain path in life, they will want to follow. There is a saying that goes, "what we wear defines who we are ", which I think absolutely holds true in this case. These rings ar
e more than just a fashion trend, they are an icon of a lifestyle that influences the way many kids choose to lead their lives.
However, as with many cultural or religious beliefs, the purity rings are bound to be criticized, especially because they hold old-fashioned values and views and virginity and marriage. Because of their nature, which isn't coherent to current event or ideologies concerning premarital sex, the rings are someti
mes judged by others.
At the 2009 MTV Music Awards, the program's host, Russell Brand, a British comedian, made a comment concerning the Jonas' Brothers promise rings. In a less vulgar interpretation, he said that the Jonas Brothers' promise rings would be more effective if worn on their private parts. Although his actions were criticized by many, they did not demean or reduce the value of the purity rings. Several celebrities, including the Jonas Brothers, defended their decision to wear the rings. Although Brand's monologue was controversial, it is now seen as a "blessing in disguise" because it raised awareness of purity rings
among youth. The Jonas Brothers retaliated by saying that the rings are "promises to (themselves) and to God that we'll stay pure until marriage." For celebrities like Miley Cyrus, a constant target of scrutiny and scandal, the ring has given protection and reason to avoid judgement, because it symbolizes that "(she) is living (her) life the way she believes is right and that is to stay pure." Ultimately, it is inspiring and relieving that the young stars which younger generations look up to are taking the vow because it gives hope that their followers will inherit these morals along with the fashion, music, and cultural emblems.
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