US Roman Catholic Bishops Denounce White House Immigration Policies
Via a rare official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has released a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Special Message Reveals Deep Concern
Church leaders voiced being disturbed by risks to the special status of houses of worship and the protected status of hospitals and schools.
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 church leaders described what they termed "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of targeting" and immigration policies.
They expressed being disheartened by the present discourse and negative portrayal of migrants, while resisting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Further Issues
Religious leaders also expressed significant concerns about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Unjustified cancellation of legal status for certain immigrants
- Lack of meaningful immigration reform
Administrative Shifts
Federal authorities has advanced an tough immigration approach since taking office, including rescinding policies that curtailed immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
International Context
The declaration parallels similar critiques made by Pope Leo, who has called for "serious consideration about the way immigrants are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the initial special message of its type in 12 years, emphasizing the gravity of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.
