American Catholic Bishops Condemn Trump Administration Immigration Policies
Via a rare formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a sharp criticism of the White House's immigration policies.
Special Message Shows Significant Apprehension
Church leaders voiced being troubled by threats against the sacred nature of religious sites and the special nature of medical facilities and educational institutions.
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 described what they labeled "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of discrimination" and immigration policies.
They expressed being saddened by the ongoing debate and demonization of immigrants, while resisting what they described as "the widespread removal of people."
Additional Concerns
The bishops also voiced significant concerns about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Lack of meaningful immigration reform
Procedural Adjustments
The Trump administration has implemented an aggressive immigration agenda since beginning the term, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Worldwide Dimension
The declaration mirrors equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has called for "deep reflection about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the first official declaration of its kind in more than ten years, underscoring the gravity of the church leaders' worries about present border measures.
