Dear Editor,
Regarding the article “He Coined a Term for the Way Many Christians Feel” (March 11), I find myself reflecting on Aaron Renn’s depiction of the modern-day challenges faced by conservative Christians, which he describes as living in a “negative world” where being Christian no longer conveys social advantage. This idea resonates with my own experiences in conservative Christianity. However, Mr. Renn’s perspective primarily addresses white Christians. For Black Christians, the 1960s were never a “positive world,” which may clarify the current backlash against teaching the histories and achievements of people of color in educational settings.
Renn also posits that the case of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. doesn’t contradict his model, arguing that King’s struggles were racially motivated rather than faith-based. This misses the mark entirely. Dr. King encountered resistance from white Christians largely due to his advocacy for Christian principles like equality, economic fairness, and peace. His dream was rooted in the Christian doctrine of loving one’s neighbor.
I stepped away from this faith tradition, heartbroken by its entanglement with white supremacy, sexism, and antagonism toward marginalized groups. The so-called “negative world” today is the creation of those who claim to be religious yet choose not to embody neighborly love.
Undoubtedly, this is a cause for sorrow for anyone guided by true Christian values.
—C. Sullivan, Colorado Springs
Dear Editor,
It was disheartening to read the extensive profile on Aaron Renn, which equates “traditional Christian moral views” predominantly with issues of sexuality and gender. For those acquainted with biblical teachings, it’s evident that the focus should be on themes like compassion, healing, and welcoming the stranger. The Ten Commandments are also quite clear in their aversion to killing and dishonesty.
The current administration, supported by some evangelicals, has reduced international aid, impacting countless lives, and lies propagate from the highest offices as needed. Advocates sharing Renn’s viewpoint might find less hostility if they addressed public moral failings rather than critiquing personal lives or constructing theologies to endorse white male dominance.
Their diminishing “privileged status” isn’t mourned by wider America. The “boorishness and cruelty” decried by Renn were reintroduced to government by the Christian right, not the secular or liberal Christian factions.
—Rev. Jim Foti, Minneapolis
Dear Editor,
Reading Aaron Renn’s argument about a “negative world” for Christians today, I can’t help but think, “Try walking a mile in the shoes” of someone in the LGBTQ+ community, especially those of color.
For centuries, Western Christianity has been intertwined with secular authority, marginalizing those outside its norms. Project 2025 seems bent on erasing queer culture in America. Historically, Christians have enjoyed privileged status here, so if they feel under siege, maybe it’s because the nation is finally taking steps to ensure church and state remain separate, protecting individual rights from religious interference.
Yet, figures like President Trump suggest a clear agenda: eliminate this separation to restore religious dominion.
—Donald Mengay, Santa Fe, N.M.
Dear Editor,
Throughout history, Christians have often been at society’s helm, wielding influence over governance. Today, organizations like the Federalist Society and Heritage Foundation fuel cultural conflicts by exploiting Christian grievances.
At its best, religion refines our irrational tendencies into ethical norms, while politics aims to translate these values into policies serving the common good. Currently, however, some religious extremists and political figures push for a brand of Christian nationalism that contradicts foundational biblical and constitutional principles of fairness.
—Annlinn Kruger, Bar Harbor, Maine
Dear Editor,
Addressing “House by House, She Steels for Grim Battle With Chronic Illness” (March 3), we must face a grim reality: chronic poverty ranks as a leading cause of death in the U.S., claiming far more lives than homicides. In our affluent nation, where American households top global wealth charts, poverty remains a lethal force.
Eli Saslow’s article in Mingo County, W.Va., underscores this plight, with a near 30% poverty rate and a life expectancy akin to 1950s levels. Decades of exploitation have left such areas economically depleted.
Instead of fighting poverty, current policies strip away the safety net. Amidst this, President Trump’s budget proposals endanger critical supports like Medicaid. Mingo County deserves better than greed-driven policies that threaten to roll back decades of progress.
With lives hanging in the balance, let’s pledge to restore compassion in America.
—Robin Stephenson, Williamsburg, Va.
Dear Editor,
What’s become of the voices from our former presidents? They have a duty to champion the Constitution and the rule of law, offering timely and effective commentary on the misuse of power we see today.
—Gretchen Goethner, Bridgeport, Conn.
Dear Editor,
“Travel 101: Tips for Solo Women Travelers” (March 13) highlights a sobering truth about the era we live in: even in 2025, women traveling alone must constantly navigate limitations regarding where they go and always remain vigilant about their safety.
Though we’ve grown accustomed to these precautions, imagine a world where such guidance wasn’t necessary.
—Karin Kramer Baldwin, Petaluma, Calif.
