American Roman Catholic Bishops Criticize Trump Administration Border Policies
In a infrequent public statement, the national Catholic bishops organization has delivered a firm denunciation of the White House's immigration crackdown.
Special Message Shows Serious Worry
The bishops stated being troubled by risks to the sacred nature of houses of worship 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
Within their declaration, the bishops characterized what they called "a climate of fear around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.
They expressed being disheartened by the ongoing debate and demonization of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
Religious leaders also voiced serious worries about:
- Conditions in border holding facilities
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for certain immigrants
- Lack of meaningful immigration reform
Policy Changes
The Trump administration has advanced an aggressive immigration agenda since taking office, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration arrests near designated sites such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
International Context
The statement echoes similar critiques made by Pope Leo, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being treated in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the initial official declaration of its type in more than ten years, underscoring the gravity of the church leaders' worries about current immigration policies.
