The world’s largest Catholic fraternal organization is coming out swinging against a bill sponsored by state Rep. Joe Salazar to cancel Columbus Day as a state holiday in Colorado. The Knights of Columbus — named in honor of explorer Christopher Columbus — is opposing House Bill 1327, saying the legislation is based on “fake history” that originated with the Ku Klux Klan’s animosity toward Catholics.

The bill, which would allow state employees a floating day off in October, passed its first committee appearance last week and is scheduled for what promises to be a contentious hearing Wednesday afternoon before the House Local Government Committee.