American Catholic Bishops Condemn White House Immigration Enforcement
Through a uncommon public statement, the national Catholic bishops organization has issued a strong condemnation of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown.
Official Declaration Expresses Deep Concern
The bishops voiced being concerned by threats against the special status of churches and the special nature 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.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Through their statement, the church leaders portrayed what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of profiling" and immigration policies.
They expressed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and demonization of immigrants, while resisting what they referred to as "the widespread removal of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also expressed major apprehensions about:
- Situations in migrant detention facilities
- Arbitrary removal of legal status for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in comprehensive immigration system improvements
Policy Changes
The White House has advanced an aggressive immigration agenda since assuming power, including revoking policies that curtailed immigration apprehensions near protected areas such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Global Perspective
The message parallels equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under Trump."
Extended Ramifications
This constitutes the first special message of its kind in 12 years, underscoring the gravity of the church leaders' worries about existing enforcement approaches.
