American Catholic Bishops Denounce Trump Administration Border Enforcement
Via a rare public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Formal Statement Reveals Significant Apprehension
The bishops voiced being concerned by threats against the sacred nature 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
Within their declaration, the religious figures characterized what they termed "a climate of fear around questions of profiling" and immigration policies.
They expressed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and vilification of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also expressed significant concerns about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Random revocation of official documentation for certain immigrants
- Absence of comprehensive immigration system improvements
Policy Changes
The White House has pursued an tough immigration approach since taking office, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration apprehensions near designated sites such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement parallels similar critiques made by the Catholic pontiff, who has advocated for "serious consideration about the way migrants are being treated in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This represents the first special message of its type in more than ten years, underscoring the gravity of the church leaders' worries about current immigration policies.
