American Catholic Bishops Denounce White House Border Policies
Through a rare formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has released a sharp criticism of the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Formal Statement Reveals Serious Worry
Religious authorities expressed being disturbed by potential violations of the sanctity of houses of worship and the unique character 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
In their message, the church leaders characterized what they labeled "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of discrimination" and immigration enforcement.
They revealed being saddened by the ongoing debate and vilification of foreign nationals, while resisting what they described as "the widespread removal of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also expressed significant concerns about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of official documentation for certain immigrants
- Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform
Procedural Adjustments
Federal authorities has pursued an aggressive immigration agenda since assuming power, including rescinding policies that limited immigration detentions near protected areas such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Worldwide Dimension
The message echoes comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way immigrants are being treated in the US under present leadership."
Broader Implications
This marks the first official declaration of its kind in over a decade, emphasizing the seriousness of the church leaders' worries about current immigration policies.
