A001412
December 5, 2001
Kenneth L. Zwick, Director
Office of Management Programs, Civil Division
U.S. Department of Justice
by fax (301) 519-5956
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 lost their lives on September 11, and each one who died left behind loved
ones. All of these families are suffering, and our nation should offer what comfort
we can to them. I urge the Department to treat the families of gay and lesbian
victims as you would any other. To do so would be in the finest tradition of
fairness and justice to which our nation aspires.
Sincerely,
Individual Comment