US Roman Catholic Bishops Condemn Trump Administration Immigration Enforcement
Through a rare public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has released a strong condemnation of the White House's immigration crackdown.
Official Declaration Expresses Deep Concern
The bishops expressed being troubled by threats against the special status of religious sites and the unique character of healthcare centers and learning establishments.
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.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Through their statement, the religious figures described what they called "a climate of fear around questions of discrimination" and immigration policies.
They revealed being disheartened by the present discourse and negative portrayal of immigrants, while opposing what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Further Issues
Religious leaders also raised major apprehensions about:
- Conditions in border holding facilities
- Random revocation of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform
Policy Changes
The White House has pursued an aggressive immigration agenda since taking office, including eliminating policies that limited immigration apprehensions near protected areas such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
International Context
The statement mirrors equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "serious consideration about the way migrants are being handled in the US under Trump."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the premier formal statement of its kind in 12 years, highlighting the gravity of the church leaders' worries about present border measures.
