A000663
Wednesday, December 05, 2001 1:48 AM
victims of Sept. 11
Dear Mr. Zwick:
I have been informed that you are in the process of setting the guidelines for the relief package for the victims of September 11th and would like to comment on this package.
September 11th was a horrid criminal act committed by people who decided to use violence in retaliation due to the USA not living by their social and moral code their religion dictates. This passing of judgment by others into our lives has caused us more pain and suffering than any of us could have ever thought was possible and has now changed us forever. While we strongly disagree with the murderous act of terrorism, and think it evil and immoral, those who committed this horrendous act think of themselves as martyrs and heroes.
Considering the above, I ask you, is the relief fund going to do the same and pass more judgments, because certain people live differently than others and not up to another's social and moral code? I sincerely hope not. While there is tremendous debate about gay and lesbian couples and their place in our society, I believe this is one place it does not belong. All of these people are victims...in fact, the entire world was a victim that day. Please, give the gay and lesbian families the same treatment as you would any other family. Remember, a large percentage of these couples would have been married if it were legal yet our own religious and moral judgments have prevented them from doing so. Giving only to married, heterosexual couples is discriminatory against them jsut like our marriage laws. Also, please don't penalize the children of gay couples. They have lost a loved one or been displaced and are suffering the same as any other child that has lost a parent.
Remember, we are a free country and while we may not agree with another's lifestyle, religion, or what have you, we are all equal under the law and should be treated as such. Homosexuality is not a chosen lifestyle and, just like we can not choose our race or sex, we can not choose our sexuality. In light of the tragedy our great country is facing, I hope you will agree that it is not the time nor the place to pass more judgments and pain on people who have already suffered greatly. Instead, we need to ban together and do all we can to help these victims get through the physical and emotions trauma's of this deed regardless of their sex, race, religion, or sexuality. Remember, each and every victim of these terrorists attacks died for our country and what we all stand for without any consideration of their sexuality. That makes them all heros in my book. I trust you will do the right thing.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Kalispell, MT