Thursday, September 19, 2002

A story released today by Maneater.com reports that after decades of activism, single and unmarried Americans will get their own week dedicated to their role in American society.

The idea for National USA Week, as it is also known, was pitched by the American Association for Single People, a lobbying organization based in Glendale, Calif. The group’s goal is to pressure Congress into adopting economic and social legislation that benefits single and unmarried Americans.

Formerly called National Singles Week, the AASP changed the name to bring in a patriotic motif, but also to include unmarried domestic partners in the celebration, said AASP executive director Tom Coleman.

Despite endorsements from traditionally liberal interest groups like the American Civil Liberties Union and the National Organization for Women, National USA Week has garnered support across party lines. Eight Democratic, four Republican and two independent governors have signed statewide proclamations into law.

Single people are not treated equally in many areas of American society, including social security and pension plans, car insurance and social dynamics in the workplace, Coleman said.

Although the concept of a week dedicated to single and unmarried people has received the support of cities, counties and states, a burning question emerges: How are people supposed to celebrate National USA Week?

Coleman suggested celebrating National USA Week by calling local talk-radio shows or writing letters to the editor to discuss the social dynamics of the single and unmarried people of America.

"I hope it brings a greater sense of awareness that single people are an integral part of American society," he said. "From that, awareness is step No. 1. Then we have a conversation about what’s wrong with the picture."