American Catholic Bishops Denounce White House Border Policies
Through a rare formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a firm denunciation of the White House's immigration policies.
Official Declaration Reveals Significant Apprehension
Church leaders voiced being troubled by risks to the special status of houses of worship 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.
Environment of Apprehension
In their message, the religious figures described what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.
They revealed being disappointed by the present discourse and negative portrayal of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Further Issues
Religious leaders also raised significant concerns about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for some migrants
- Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform
Administrative Shifts
Federal authorities has advanced an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including revoking policies that restricted immigration detentions near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools.
International Context
The message parallels comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being treated in the US under Trump."
Broader Implications
This represents the first special message of its nature in over a decade, emphasizing the seriousness of the religious authorities' apprehensions about present border measures.
