AASP member thanks executive director, Thomas F. Coleman for standing up for her rights

For the past 30 years, I have dedicated my life to in home daycare.  I live in Norfolk, VA and am licensed by the state of Virginia.  I have been licensed for nearly twenty five years.

In June of 2001, the state of Virginia Licensing Department saw fit to deny renewal of my daycare license, due to the fact that I have a live-in companion.  He has been registered with the State of Virginia on my daycare license for sixteen years.

In June of 2001, the Licensing Department decided he could no longer live in my home if I maintained the daycare there.  The daycare is my sole means of support and with no license, I could not afford to keep my home.  I stood to lose all I had worked for over the past 40 years. I decided to fight for my rights.

During the next couple of weeks, I received help from the (ACLU) American Civil Liberties Union and was made an honorary member of The American Association For Single People.  Mr. Thomas F. Coleman, Executive Director for the American Association for Single People wrote a powerful letter to Mr. Charles Ingram, Executive Director of Virginia's Licensing Department.

In his effort to plead my case, he noted that the 1877 law, which the denial was based on was unconstitutional.  His concern was that it would have effect on other unmarried adults who have business or professional licenses in Virginia.

I feel that his letter had a great impact on my case. I am very thankful for the concerns of the Association and their faith in me and my case.

On March 15, 2002 , I received my renewed daycare license. No explanation from the state. I am very thankful.

I would like to thank the American Association For Single People and Mr. Coleman for their support.  I look forward to being a member of the Association.

On behalf of the children in Davis Daycare, my staff, myself and my companion, Thank You. Your contribution to my case is greatly appreciated.

   Darlene K. Davis
  Norfolk, VA 23518

To view articles that dealt with Ms. Davis' plight click to the links below.

http://www.unmarriedamerica.com/Virginia-DavisDayCare.htm

Virginia woman gets day care license renewed