Tuesday, July 15, 2008

To United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees-Ankara:

This letter particularly concerns the cases of Reza and Kamal with file numbers 385-06C03012 and 385-06C03015, respectively. Reza and Kamal completed their legal interviews on September 6, 2007, and are currently waiting for the commissioner's decision.

I support queer Iranians, and urge the acceptance of their applications for refugee status, as there is every reason to suppose that their lives may depend upon it. I am concerned about their physical and emotional states in Turkey, and urge you to bring them relief from the hard living conditions, which include unsanitary housing, lack of medical supplies and life expenses. Reza and Kamal are particularly affected because Kamal is seriously ill and needs urgent medical assistance.

I realize you have many refugee applicants that you must respond to. However, due to the exigent circumstances especially facing queer refugees, I urge you to assist Reza and Kamal, and grant them refugee status as soon as possible.

Your timely, informed and sensitive treatment of this case will be much appreciated.

Sincerely and Respectfully,
Timothy Schwinghamer

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