Letter of the day: America at its exceptional best when opportunity exists for all

Adopting "American exceptionalism" as a belief system can be hopeful and inspiring, but also misleading and blinding. It can be used as a cudgel to cow debate about the true nature of the problems we face and about effective solutions. This is especially true when debate touches strongly held beliefs about the proper role of public and private action to address societal concerns. One empirical difference about the United States is our exceptional generosity. I am grateful every day for this national trait, but private charity cannot compensate for misplaced government priorities. There we have experienced a confluence of tax and spending decisions that have concentrated wealth to a degree not seen since pre-Depression years. At the same time, decidedly unexceptional conditions of high long-term unemployment, growing education and health disparities, and rising and spreading poverty have been allowed to take deep root. Without question, American is an exceptional place for many, and private philanthropy contributes greatly to our quality of life. But we will remain a beacon of hope and opportunity for all only by candidly confronting the challenges we face and mobilizing public resources in a more equitable way. STEVE CRAMER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, PROJECT FOR PRIDE IN LIVING, MINNEAPOLIS