A001410
December 3, 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 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.
Sadly, there are those on the Radical Religious Right who would like to see the
surviving partners and children of gay and lesbian victims excluded from the benefits
of the Fund. This would be cruel and reprehensible.
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 we would any other. To do less would be unChristian.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Pittsburg, KS