A001035
Wednesday, December 05, 2001 8:28 PM
Help ALL Victims Of Sept. 11
Kenneth L. Zwick, Director
Office of Management Programs, Civil Division
U.S. Department of Justice
Dear Mr. Zwick:
Thank you for the opportunity to be heard. 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 know that this administration in general has a strong Christian
conservative philosophy guiding it, but I honestly believe that God or
Christ or Mary would see the need for compassion and understanding and
want these children and family members to have the same benefit that
other families have.
As a former Methodist and current Taoist, my tradition is compassion. I
am a citizen and should feel that my government represents my views
equally. This is a time for coming together, not establishing
artificial barriers based on prejudice and narrow religious conviction.
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
Wilton, NH