American Roman Catholic Bishops Denounce White House Immigration Enforcement
Through a rare public statement, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a sharp criticism of the Trump administration's border enforcement measures.
Formal Statement Expresses Significant Apprehension
Religious authorities voiced being troubled 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 characterized what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement.
They revealed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and demonization of migrants, while rejecting what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
Religious leaders also raised serious worries about:
- Conditions in border holding facilities
- Random revocation of official documentation for various foreign nationals
- Lack of comprehensive immigration system improvements
Administrative Shifts
The White House has pursued an aggressive immigration agenda since assuming power, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
International Context
The statement mirrors comparable criticisms made by the Vatican leader, who has advocated for "thorough contemplation about the way migrants are being addressed in the US under present leadership."
Broader Implications
This represents the premier formal statement of its nature in more than ten years, emphasizing the seriousness of the church leaders' worries about current immigration policies.
