US Catholic Church Leaders Denounce White House Immigration Policies
Through a rare public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has released a strong condemnation of the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Official Declaration Expresses Serious Worry
Church leaders expressed being concerned by threats against the special status of houses of worship and the special nature 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
Within their declaration, the bishops described what they termed "a environment of apprehension around questions of targeting" and border control measures.
They stated being disappointed by the present discourse and negative portrayal of immigrants, while rejecting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also raised major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in migrant detention facilities
- Random revocation of official documentation for certain immigrants
- Absence of comprehensive immigration system improvements
Procedural Adjustments
The Trump administration has implemented an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including rescinding policies that curtailed immigration detentions near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement echoes similar critiques made by Pope Leo, who has urged "deep reflection about the way migrants are being treated in the US under present leadership."
Extended Ramifications
This constitutes the premier official declaration of its type in over a decade, highlighting the seriousness of the church leaders' worries about current immigration policies.
