US Roman Catholic Bishops Condemn White House Immigration Policies
Via a uncommon official declaration, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Official Declaration Expresses Deep Concern
Religious authorities stated being concerned by threats against the sanctity of churches and the protected status 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
In their message, the church leaders portrayed what they called "a climate of fear around questions of discrimination" and immigration policies.
They revealed being disappointed by the current discussion and demonization of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they described as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Other Worries
Religious leaders also voiced serious worries about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for some migrants
- Lack of meaningful immigration reform
Procedural Adjustments
The Trump administration has pursued an aggressive immigration agenda since assuming power, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration arrests near designated sites such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
International Context
The declaration echoes equivalent concerns made by Pope Leo, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under Trump."
Extended Ramifications
This represents the first special message of its type in more than ten years, underscoring the gravity of the religious authorities' apprehensions about current immigration policies.
