American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Condemn Trump Administration Immigration Policies
In a infrequent public statement, the national Catholic bishops organization has issued a sharp criticism of the White House's border enforcement measures.
Official Declaration Expresses Serious Worry
Church leaders voiced being troubled by threats against the special status of houses of worship and the protected status of medical facilities and educational institutions.
We recognize that nations have a responsibility to regulate their borders and establish a just and orderly immigration system for the sake of the common good.
Climate of Fear
Through their statement, the bishops portrayed what they called "a climate of fear around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement.
They stated being saddened by the present discourse and vilification of foreign nationals, while opposing what they described as "the widespread removal of people."
Further Issues
Church authorities also expressed significant concerns about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Lack of meaningful immigration reform
Policy Changes
Federal authorities has advanced an stringent border policy since taking office, including eliminating policies that limited immigration arrests near designated sites such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement mirrors equivalent concerns made by Pope Leo, who has called for "serious consideration about the way migrants are being addressed in the US under the current administration."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the premier official declaration of its nature in more than ten years, highlighting the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.
