US Roman Catholic Bishops Condemn White House Border Enforcement
Through a rare public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has released a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Formal Statement Expresses Significant Apprehension
Religious authorities expressed being disturbed by risks to the sacred nature of houses of worship and the unique character 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 religious figures characterized what they labeled "a climate of fear around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement.
They stated being disheartened by the present discourse and demonization of foreign nationals, while opposing what they referred to as "the widespread removal of people."
Further Issues
The bishops also voiced serious worries about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of legal status for some migrants
- Absence of comprehensive immigration system improvements
Policy Changes
Federal authorities has implemented an stringent border policy since taking office, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration arrests near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools.
International Context
The message echoes equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way migrants are being addressed in the US under Trump."
Wider Consequences
This represents the premier special message of its type in over a decade, emphasizing the seriousness of the religious authorities' apprehensions about current immigration policies.
