US Roman Catholic Bishops Condemn White House Border Policies
Via a uncommon formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a strong condemnation of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown.
Special Message Reveals Significant Apprehension
Church leaders voiced being disturbed 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.
Environment of Apprehension
Through their statement, the church leaders described what they termed "a environment of apprehension around questions of profiling" and border control measures.
They revealed being saddened by the ongoing debate and negative portrayal of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they described as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Further Issues
Religious leaders also expressed serious worries about:
- Conditions in immigration detention centers
- Unjustified cancellation of official documentation for certain immigrants
- Lack of comprehensive immigration system improvements
Policy Changes
The White House has implemented an aggressive immigration agenda since beginning the term, including rescinding policies that curtailed immigration apprehensions near sensitive locations such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The message mirrors equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "deep reflection about the way foreign nationals are being treated in the US under Trump."
Broader Implications
This represents the premier special message of its kind in 12 years, emphasizing the seriousness of the religious authorities' apprehensions about present border measures.
