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About the CFC
The United States was founded on the Enlightenment era concept of religious freedom -- both freedom of religion and freedom from religion -- and a “wall of separation” between church and state to prevent our secular government from establishing or favoring any religion. As America grows more religiously diverse with each passing year, these protections are more important than ever. The Congressional Freethought Caucus is proud to reflect America’s diverse faith perspectives — Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Humanists, and others. We advocate for true religious freedom, church-state separation, and for public policies based on facts, science, and reason.
Religious diversity has never been greater, and the secular community has never been larger than at any other time in American history. The Congressional Freethought Caucus is proud to represent the diverse faiths and values of America—Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Humanists, and others. We are the only congressional caucus dedicated to striving for religious freedom and the separation of church and state. As our numbers continue to grow, we will continue working to solidify our constitutional rights and democracy. The Congressional Freethought Caucus was founded in 2018 by Representatives Jared Huffman, Jamie Raskin, and former Representative Jerry McNerney. The caucus is open to Members of all faiths and none, drawing participants from a range of religious, philosophical, and political backgrounds.
Latest News
Washington D.C.
Washington, D.C. – This week, Representative Huffman (CA-02) and Representative Raskin (MD-08) alongside other democratic colleagues are introducing a resolution in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. As the United States prepares to celebrate its Sem
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressional Freethought Caucus Chairs Jared Huffman (CA-02) and Jamie Raskin (MD-08) led their colleagues in a video regarding Trump's state-sponsored religious extremist event on the National Mall.
Promote
Public policy formed on the basis of reason, science, and moral values.
Protect
The secular character of our government and uphold separation of church and state.
Oppose
Discrimination against belief systems and to champion freedom of thought and conscience.
Provide
A forum to discuss moral frameworks, ethical values, and personal religious journeys.
How It Started
In 2017, after Rep. Huffman came out as the only openly non-religious member of Congress, he and Rep. Raskin agreed that Congress needed a working coalition to defend church-state separation and secular values. By early 2018, the Freethought Caucus was born with Huffman, Raskin, and Reps. Jerry McNerney and Dan Kildee as founding members. Rep. Pramila Jayapal soon joined, as well, and many more members have followed. Today, the Freethought Caucus includes 37 members representing a diverse mix of regional, political and religious perspectives united around the CFC’s mission.