dojA001078.xml

dojA001078.xml

born-digital

email

yes

no

2001-12-05

Wednesday, December 05, 2001 11:15 PM
re: 9-11


Kenneth L. Swick, Director
Office of Management Programs, Civil Division
U.S. Dept. of Justice


Dear Mr. Zwick:

I am writing out of concern for the victims of the terrorists attack on
September 11. Thank you for the Department's request for public comments
regarding the forthcoming regulations for implementing and administering
the "September 11 Victim Compensation Fund."

I strongly urge the Department to draft regulations that ensure
compensation is available to all victims of the attack, including the
committed partners and the non-biological children
of gay and lesbian victims.The devastating grief and economic losses
suffered by the families of gay and lesbian victims are no less than
that of other families. The terrorists
drew no lines in choosing their victims. This is not a time for our
country to draw
lines in compensating those who suffered the most personal of losses
from these horrific attacks.

Many Americans lost their lives on September 11, each of whom left
behind loved ones. I urge the Department to honor these bonds by
treating the families of gay and lesbian victims as you would any other.
To do any less is only to further the pain and anguish that is already
theirs. Surely this is a time for us to be reaching out hands and arms
to help all who were so personally devastated by the loss of loved ones
that day.

Sincerely,
Individual Comment
New Haven, CT

2001-12-05