R001625
Saturday, March 16, 2002 3:12 PM
Gays and Lesbians Discrimated Against in 9/11 Fund
I am shocked to hear of the decision to discriminate against gays and
lesbians who lost their lives in the 9/11 tragedy. I was even more shocked
to hear that even illegal aliens, who aren't American citizens
and who are in the US in violation of federal law, will receive benefits. How
can it be that law abiding, tax paying citizens won't be given fair
acknowledgment of the loss of their loved ones, while law breaking, non tax
paying aliens will? That is appalling.
To shovel the responsibility off to the state for determining if gay and
lesbian relationships are valid is ridiculous. Are the states deciding if
other peoples relationships are valid? Everyone knows most states do not
legally recognize gay relationships, and the very few that do tend to
do so only for state employees, not for citizens at large.
If September 11 has taught us anything, it's that our patriotism and love of
country transcend our differences and unite us all. It would be ironic if the
generosity of so many Americans in giving to the September 11th Fund were
used to further divide us as a people, and send the message to all that some
American heroes are more equal than others.
I strongly urge that this decision for discrimination be reversed immediately
and that qualifying gay and lesbian widows/widowers be included as fund
recipients.
Thanks you,
Individual Comment