American Catholic Bishops Condemn Trump Administration Border Enforcement
In a infrequent formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a strong condemnation of the White House's border enforcement measures.
Formal Statement Shows Deep Concern
The bishops voiced being troubled by threats against the sanctity of religious sites and the unique character 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.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
In their message, the church leaders portrayed what they termed "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of discrimination" and immigration policies.
They stated being disappointed by the ongoing debate and demonization of foreign nationals, while resisting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Additional Concerns
Church authorities also expressed significant concerns about:
- Situations in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of legal status for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform
Administrative Shifts
Federal authorities has implemented an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including rescinding policies that restricted immigration detentions near protected areas such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Global Perspective
The message parallels equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "deep reflection about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under Trump."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the initial formal statement of its type in more than ten years, highlighting the significance of the religious authorities' apprehensions about current immigration policies.
