A001322
Friday, December 07, 2001 8:51 PM
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. The Red Cross has worked closely with groups in
New York City and have implemented a similar policy in compensating gay and lesbians and their families.
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 attacks. I am surprised that our governement, the government in
charge of "Operation Enduring Freedom" would think of not including all the
victims of the September 11 attack. In my heart I feel that if we cannot
endure freedom and equal rights in our own country, we cannot be so proud of
ourselves.
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