US Catholic Church Leaders Denounce White House Immigration Enforcement
Via a rare public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has released a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Official Declaration Shows Deep Concern
The bishops voiced being concerned by threats against the special status of churches and the protected status 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.
Environment of Apprehension
In their message, the religious figures described what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of profiling" and immigration policies.
They expressed being saddened by the ongoing debate and demonization of immigrants, while rejecting what they described as "the widespread removal of people."
Further Issues
Church authorities also voiced serious worries about:
- Conditions in immigration detention centers
- Unjustified cancellation of legal status for some migrants
- Lack of comprehensive immigration system improvements
Policy Changes
The White House has pursued an tough immigration approach since beginning the term, including revoking policies that curtailed immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Global Perspective
The message parallels equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has advocated for "serious consideration about the way immigrants are being addressed in the US under the current administration."
Extended Ramifications
This constitutes the first official declaration of its type in more than ten years, emphasizing the gravity of the church leaders' worries about existing enforcement approaches.
