A000485
Tuesday, December 04, 2001 7:05 PM
September 11 Victim Compensation Fund
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.
I am horrified by the callousness displayed by those on the religious right,
who claim that assisting gays and lesbians in the same manner as straight
people is an attempt to push some sort of "gay agenda." It is indeed
frightening that people so ideologically similar to the fundamentalist
fanatics who murdered thousands of our fellow Americans weild as much power
as they do in our country.
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
Portland, OR