American Catholic Bishops Criticize White House Border Policies
Through a uncommon official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has released a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Official Declaration Shows Significant Apprehension
The bishops expressed being troubled by threats against the sanctity of religious sites and the special nature 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
Within their declaration, the bishops portrayed what they termed "a climate of fear around questions of discrimination" and immigration policies.
They expressed being saddened by the ongoing debate and negative portrayal of immigrants, while resisting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Further Issues
The bishops also raised serious worries about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Unjustified cancellation of legal status for certain immigrants
- Insufficiency in comprehensive immigration system improvements
Procedural Adjustments
The Trump administration has advanced an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including revoking policies that limited immigration detentions near designated sites such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Global Perspective
The statement parallels equivalent concerns made by Pope Leo, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under the current administration."
Extended Ramifications
This marks the premier formal statement of its type in more than ten years, emphasizing the gravity of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.