dojA002123.xml

dojA002123.xml

born-digital

email

yes

no

2001-12-17

Monday, December 17, 2001 3:59 PM
compensation for all victims of September 11, 2001

Kenneth L. Zwick, Director
Office of Management Programs, Civil Division
U.S. Department of Justice

Dear Mr. Zwick:

I am writing in response to the Department's request for public comments
regarding the forthcoming regulations for implementing and administering the
"September 11 Victim Compensation Fund." I have recently heard that there
may be a move to deny compensation to homosexual partners and children of
homosexual couples. I am against this type of discrimination and 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.

It is unquestionable that the devastating grief and economic losses suffered
by the families of gay and lesbian victims are no less than that of other
families. Just as the terrorists drew no lines in choosing their victims,
our country must draw no 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.

Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Seattle, WA

2001-12-17