American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Denounce White House Border Policies
In a infrequent formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a firm denunciation of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown.
Special Message Reveals Serious Worry
Church leaders expressed being disturbed by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the special nature of medical facilities and educational institutions.
Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Through their statement, the bishops described what they called "a climate of fear around questions of discrimination" and immigration policies.
They expressed being disheartened by the current discussion and negative portrayal of migrants, while resisting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
The bishops also expressed serious worries about:
- Situations in border holding facilities
- Arbitrary removal of official documentation for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform
Policy Changes
Federal authorities has implemented an stringent border policy since assuming power, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration detentions near designated sites such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The message parallels similar critiques made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under Trump."
Extended Ramifications
This marks the first formal statement of its type in 12 years, underscoring the significance of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.
