Jul 26, 2012 / 10:51 am
With nearly 80 percent of U.S. residents expressing frustration over the tone of political discourse, the Knights of Columbus have launched an initiative to restore respectful and thoughtful discussion.
"The American people want and deserve civility and a conversation on the issues rather than personal attacks," Supreme Knight Carl Anderson said in a July 26 statement about the new "Civility in America" campaign, which includes an online petition and a series of full-page national newspaper ads.
"In our own lives, all of us have friends with whom we disagree, and we long ago learned how to have civil relationships despite our differences," observed Anderson, who heads the Catholic charitable and fraternal order.
"Since our elected officials work for and represent the American people, this petition is a step forward in making our voice heard and in making clear to our public servants how we would like them to conduct themselves," Anderson said.