A001072
Wednesday, December 05, 2001 10:34 PM
Sept. 11th victim compensation fund--
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 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.
I am the mother of a gay son. He and his partner have been together for
almost 13 years. I know the love they have for each other, and it is no
different than my husband and I have for each other after our fifty plus
years together. A loss of anyone's loved one is just as tragic no matter
who we are. At this season I think of Tiny Tim's phrase when he said "God
bless all, everyone"!!! No one is excluded!!!
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Richland, WA