I have spoken to Police Officers that work in the UK that told me they had to disclose their membership in the craft because of perceived favoritism in the ranks.
I have a Masonic license plate, a percentage of the fee goes directly to the widows and orphans fund. A neighbor asked me why I have a Mason county tag on my car, I explained it was a Masonic tag. He stormed off telling me his brother the preacher said it was a cult. I was never invited back to dinner and he always had an excuse when asked over to our home.
My sister watches the History Channel, so she occasionally asks the usual stupid questions.
An application for a security clearance asked if I was a member of any fraternal organizations, I was truthful and received my clearance Clarence. Other than my neighbor, It's never been an issue with anyone except my church, I was raised Catholic. I attend a non denominational Christian Church now.