dojA000948.xml

dojA000948.xml

born-digital

email

yes

no

2001-12-05

Wednesday, December 05, 2001 3:39 PM
victims' compensation

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 strongly demand that the Department 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. One gay man was responsible for helping avert the crash of the
plane which was intended for the White House. It would be a cruel irony that
the lives of many in Washington were spared, but this man's partner would
receive no compensation.
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
Ojai, CA

2001-12-05