American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Condemn White House Border Policies
Via a rare official declaration, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a sharp criticism of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown.
Formal Statement Expresses Deep Concern
Religious authorities voiced being disturbed by threats against the sacred nature of religious sites and the unique character 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
Within their declaration, the church leaders characterized what they labeled "a climate of fear around questions of targeting" and immigration enforcement.
They expressed being disheartened by the current discussion and vilification of immigrants, while rejecting what they called "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Further Issues
Religious leaders also expressed significant concerns about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for certain immigrants
- Insufficiency in substantial border policy changes
Administrative Shifts
Federal authorities has implemented an stringent border policy since beginning the term, including rescinding policies that limited immigration detentions near designated sites such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Global Perspective
The statement mirrors comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "serious consideration about the way immigrants are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Broader Implications
This represents the initial formal statement of its kind in 12 years, underscoring the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about present border measures.
