A000383
Tuesday, December 04, 2001 5:06 PM
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.
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.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Regards,
Individual Comment
Los Angeles, CA