Dear Editor: In her letter, printed in The Tablet, July 21, Geraldine Gazzara questions whether “patriotic is acceptable anymore.” Of course it is. The confusion comes because its meaning changes from person to person. Citizens of a democratic republic have a right to disagree with government policy. As a patriot, I believe that when I disagree morally, ethically or philosophically with government policy it is also my responsibility to express that disagreement, and work for change. That is the role of a patriotic citizenry. That right and responsibility should be the defining difference between a representational government and a dictatorship.

CHRISTINE NAPOLITAN

Park Slope