A001427
Monday, December 10, 2001 12:46 PM
Cooments re: compensation for families and victims of September
11 attacks
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.
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.
To withhold compensation to any of the victims or their families,
for any reason, much less to further the far right's agenda of
intolerance is absolutely unconscionable. We are deeply troubled
and ashamed of those who would even suggest it.
Many Americans - rich, poor, White, African American, Arab, gay, straight,
bigoted and tolerant, 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
Brooklyn Center, MN