Political activity of the Knights of Columbus

The political activity of the Knights of Columbus deals with the involvement of the fraternal order in efforts to influence public policy.

The Knights of Columbus has played an active role in politics ever since its formation.^[1] In the years following the Second Vatican Council in the 1960s, the earlier focus on protesting discrimination against Catholics shifted to more activity to promote social issues.^[2]

During much of the 20th century and particularly during the era of the Cold War, the Order was politically active in opposing anarchism, communism and socialism, especially within the United States.^[3] It was also supportive of trade unionism, the protection of civil rights,^[4] and efforts to address racism.^[4]

More recently, it has taken an active stance on social issues and causes, supporting religious freedom and opposing efforts to introduce or promote same-sex marriage, abortion, and mandates that require employers to pay for artificial birth control, even if they violate their religious beliefs. The Order has also taken an interest in the rights of immigrants and refugees, especially those immigrants and refugees who come from Catholic-majority countries.