American Catholic Church Leaders Condemn White House Immigration Policies
In a rare formal message, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has released a sharp criticism of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown.
Special Message Expresses Significant Apprehension
The bishops stated being concerned by risks to the special status 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.
Environment of Apprehension
Through their statement, the bishops characterized what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of targeting" and immigration policies.
They expressed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and vilification of immigrants, while resisting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also expressed serious worries about:
- Conditions in border holding facilities
- Random revocation of official documentation for various foreign nationals
- Lack of substantial border policy changes
Procedural Adjustments
The White House has advanced an stringent border policy since beginning the term, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as churches, hospitals and schools.
International Context
The declaration echoes equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "serious consideration about the way migrants are being addressed in the US under present leadership."
Extended Ramifications
This marks the first special message of its kind in over a decade, highlighting the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.
