A001097
Thursday, December 06, 2001 2:09 AM
comments re victim compensation guidelines
Mr. 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 worked in the World Trade Center for 16 years. I lost a dear friend and
many colleagues in the September 11 attack. My friend, and many others who
were lost that day, could have easily escaped the towers, but instead risked
and lost their lives because they chose to help others get out alive. They
didn't wear uniforms, but they were every bit as courageous and selfless as
those who did, and I know they helped save hundreds of people who would
otherwise have been trapped inside the collapsing towers.
As I read their biographies in the newspapers every day, I realize that many
of these heroes who had families and children dependent upon them, were not
legally married. I am particularly concerned about the welfare of the life
partners and the non-biological children of gay and lesbian victims. I
implore you and the Justice Department to draft regulations that ensure that
compensation is available to these victims' families, as it will be to all
the other victims of the attack.
One of the qualities that distinguishes us from our fundamentalist attackers
is our enlightened tolerance for the diversity that flourishes in our great
cities, and throughout our country. The devastating grief and economic losses
suffered by the families of gay and lesbian victims is surely no less than
that of other families. 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.
This country has come together as never before to help support the victims of
terror and the loved ones of those who lost their lives on September 11th.
In the spirit of national unity, the Justice Department would honor these
bonds of love by treating the families of gay and lesbian victims as it does
any other.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment
Brooklyn, NY