Statement as issued Monday by Allen County Right to Life:

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is now MANDATING that ALL employers provide free contraceptives, sterilization and abortion-inducing drugs through their health plans.

The HHS provided a “religious exemption” so narrow that it would exclude Catholic hospitals, universities and charities, forcing these institutions to act in direct opposition to Catholic teaching through the health care plans they provide.

Religious leaders of many faiths, all across the country, have joined all 181 Catholic bishops in denouncing the HHS Mandate as an assault on religious liberty and freedom of conscience.

OVER 100 CITIES AND TOWNS have signed on to join the Nationwide Rally for Religious Freedom – including FORT WAYNE!

What: RALLY FOR RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

When: Friday, March 23, Noon to 1 p.m.

Site: Allen County Courthouse-Courtyard Green (East Side of Courthouse)

Address: 715 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne, IN 46802

The peaceful Rally will include guest speakers, hymns and prayers for our nation and updates from other Rally sites across the country.