American Catholic Bishops Condemn White House Border Policies
Via a rare public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a firm denunciation of the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Special Message Expresses Significant Apprehension
Church leaders voiced being troubled by potential violations of the sanctity of houses of worship and the protected status of healthcare centers and learning establishments.
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
Within their declaration, the religious figures described what they labeled "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement.
They expressed being disappointed by the present discourse and negative portrayal of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
Church authorities also raised major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in substantial border policy changes
Procedural Adjustments
Federal authorities has implemented an stringent border policy since assuming power, including revoking policies that restricted immigration arrests near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Worldwide Dimension
The message parallels similar critiques made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way migrants are being handled in the US under Trump."
Broader Implications
This represents the initial special message of its kind in over a decade, highlighting the gravity of the church leaders' worries about present border measures.
