dojA000407.xml

dojA000407.xml

born-digital

email

yes

no

2001-12-04

Tuesday, December 04, 2001 5:30 PM
equal compensation to ALL families

Kenneth L. Zwick, Director
Office of Management Programs, Civil Division
U.S. Department of Justice
via E-MAIL victimcomp.comments@usdoj.gov

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 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.

As the adult daughter of a lesbian mother, this issue is particularly
important to me. I know I'm not alone-- there are an estimated 4-6 million
sons and daughters with gay and lesbian parents in the United States, and we
are organized, active and passionate about protecting the rights of our
families.

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
NYC, NY

2001-12-04