American Catholic Church Leaders Criticize Trump Administration Immigration Enforcement
Via a uncommon official declaration, the national Catholic bishops organization has released a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Special Message Reveals Deep Concern
Religious authorities expressed being troubled by threats against the sanctity of churches and the protected status of hospitals and schools.
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
Through their statement, the bishops described what they called "a climate of fear around questions of profiling" and immigration policies.
They stated being disappointed by the current discussion and vilification of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they described as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Other Worries
Religious leaders also expressed serious worries about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Random revocation of legal status for certain immigrants
- Absence of substantial border policy changes
Administrative Shifts
The White House has pursued an aggressive immigration agenda since assuming power, including rescinding policies that restricted immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Global Perspective
The statement parallels similar critiques made by the Vatican leader, who has called for "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being treated in the US under Trump."
Extended Ramifications
This marks the first special message of its nature in more than ten years, highlighting the gravity of the religious authorities' apprehensions about existing enforcement approaches.
