US Roman Catholic Bishops Criticize White House Immigration Policies
In a rare official declaration, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Special Message Shows Deep Concern
Church leaders expressed being disturbed by threats against the special status of churches 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 religious figures described what they termed "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of discrimination" and immigration enforcement.
They expressed being disappointed by the present discourse and negative portrayal of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also expressed serious worries about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Random revocation of legal status for certain immigrants
- Absence of meaningful immigration reform
Administrative Shifts
The White House has advanced an stringent border policy since taking office, including revoking policies that restricted immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Global Perspective
The statement echoes comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has advocated for "deep reflection about the way foreign nationals are being treated in the US under present leadership."
Extended Ramifications
This represents the premier official declaration of its kind in more than ten years, emphasizing the gravity of the bishops' concerns about present border measures.
