A000370
Tuesday, December 04, 2001 4:40 PM
9/11 Compensation
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, lesbian, or heterosexual victims. In addition, it is important to
remember those relatives of victims who were killed while performing jobs
that many legal residents and citizens prefer not to do. In other words,
those who happened to be working without legal papers to do so still deserve
compensation.
It is unquestionable that the devastating grief and economic
losses suffered by the families of gay, lesbian, and illegal alien 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, lesbian, and illegal alien victims as
you would any other.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Austin, TX