American Roman Catholic Bishops Denounce Trump Administration Border Enforcement
In a rare official declaration, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a firm denunciation of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Formal Statement Expresses Deep Concern
Religious authorities voiced being troubled by risks to the sacred nature of churches and the unique character 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 characterized what they termed "a environment of apprehension around questions of profiling" and border control measures.
They revealed being saddened by the present discourse and negative portrayal of migrants, while rejecting what they called "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also voiced serious worries about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Unjustified cancellation of official documentation for certain immigrants
- Insufficiency in substantial border policy changes
Policy Changes
The White House has implemented an tough immigration approach since beginning the term, including rescinding policies that restricted immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Global Perspective
The statement echoes comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "serious consideration about the way immigrants are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This represents the initial special message of its type in more than ten years, emphasizing the gravity of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.
