dojR002953.xml

dojR002953.xml

born-digital

email

yes

no

2001-12-06

Kenneth L. Zwick, Director
Office of Management Programs, Civil Division
U.S. Department of Justice
FAX (301) 519-5956
December 6, 2001

Dear Mr. Zwick:

I am a Justice Coordinator with over 600 Sisters and Associates. We are writing in
response to your 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. All surviving families of those killed, INCLUDING the committed partners and the non-biological children of gay and lesbian victims should be compensated fairly and equally.

I understand that the Justice Department must issue the regulations by DECEMBER 21,
2001, so I will be looking forward to inclusive regulations. 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 are you would any other.

I will be looking for your response to this letter addressing our concerns.

Sincerely,

Individual Comment
Justice Coordinator
St. Louis, MO

2001-12-06