American Roman Catholic Bishops Denounce White House Immigration Policies
In a rare public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a firm denunciation of the White House's immigration policies.
Formal Statement Shows Deep Concern
Religious authorities voiced being concerned by threats against the special status of religious sites and the special nature 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.
Climate of Fear
Within their declaration, the church leaders characterized what they labeled "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of targeting" and border control measures.
They revealed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and negative portrayal of migrants, while rejecting what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
Church authorities also expressed significant concerns about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Arbitrary removal of legal status for various foreign nationals
- Absence of meaningful immigration reform
Policy Changes
Federal authorities has implemented an aggressive immigration agenda since taking office, including rescinding policies that limited immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Global Perspective
The declaration mirrors comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "deep reflection about the way immigrants are being addressed in the US under Trump."
Extended Ramifications
This constitutes the initial formal statement of its type in over a decade, emphasizing the significance of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.
