US Roman Catholic Church Leaders Denounce White House Immigration Enforcement
Through a rare formal message, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has released a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Official Declaration Reveals Serious Worry
Church leaders stated being troubled by potential violations of the special status of religious sites 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.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
In their message, the bishops portrayed what they labeled "a environment of apprehension around questions of discrimination" and immigration enforcement.
They expressed being disheartened by the current discussion and demonization of migrants, while opposing what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Further Issues
Church authorities also raised major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for certain immigrants
- Absence of substantial border policy changes
Policy Changes
The White House has pursued an aggressive immigration agenda since assuming power, including eliminating policies that limited immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
International Context
The declaration echoes equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "serious consideration about the way migrants are being treated in the US under Trump."
Broader Implications
This constitutes the initial special message of its kind in 12 years, emphasizing the significance of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.
