A000632
Tuesday, December 04, 2001 10:59 PM
September 11th, 2001
Kenneth L. Zwick, Director
Office of Management Programs, Civil Division
U.S Department Of Justice
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 11th Victim
Fund." I strongly reccommend the Department 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 compensation those who
suffered the most personal of losses from these horrific attacks. Failure to do this, breeds not
only insecurity for the victims but also indifference and hate of a goverment which has said,
protects them. It undermines trust in the goverment in GBLT voters and also seeks to
reinforce the idea American officials don't care about GBLT citizens.
Many Americans lost their lives on September 11, each of whom left behind loved ones. I
urged the Department to honor these bonds by treating the families of gay and lesbian victims
as you would any others.
Sincerely
Individual Comment
Portland, Maine