American Roman Catholic Bishops Criticize Trump Administration Border Policies
Via a uncommon public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a strong condemnation of the White House's immigration crackdown.
Formal Statement Expresses Deep Concern
The bishops stated being concerned by risks to the sacred nature of religious sites 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.
Environment of Apprehension
Through their statement, the bishops portrayed what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of discrimination" and immigration enforcement.
They expressed being saddened by the present discourse and demonization of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
The bishops also raised major apprehensions about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for some migrants
- Lack of meaningful immigration reform
Procedural Adjustments
The Trump administration has advanced an stringent border policy since taking office, including rescinding policies that limited immigration apprehensions near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Global Perspective
The statement parallels similar critiques made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "deep reflection about the way immigrants are being addressed in the US under present leadership."
Broader Implications
This marks the premier special message of its nature in more than ten years, highlighting the seriousness of the religious authorities' apprehensions about current immigration policies.
