N002620
December 30, 2001
Special Master Kenneth R. Feinberg
September 11th Victim Compensation Fund
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20530
December 30, 2001
Dear Mr. Feinberg:
I am writing to urge you to ensure fair treatment for all surviving families of the September 11th tragedy, including the children and families of gay and lesbian Americans who perished.
That you recognize the sanctity and legitimacy of gay and lesbian relationships and families as you make these crucial decisions is imperative. Gay and lesbian families are especially
vulnerable when one partner is killed. Because the option of marriage is largely unavailable, these families often find themselves in the traumatic predicament of having to prove the legitimacy of their union. Both the Red Cross and the State of New York have already announced that they will not discriminate against gay and lesbian families. Our United States Department of Justice must follow suit.
As an American, I ask you to keep in mind the gay and lesbian citizens who serve heroically as police, firefighters, soldiers, medical personnel and in other critical occupations. We also must keep in mind the gay and lesbian Americans who donated to the compensation fund trusting that their gift would be distributed without prejudice. It would be unconscionable to dispense their monies while denying the legitimacy, worth and humanity of other gay and lesbian Americans.
Thank you for considering my comments. I look forward to hearing how you will act on these
very important issues.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Middleboro, MA