American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Denounce Trump Administration Immigration Policies
Via a rare public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a sharp criticism of the Trump administration's border enforcement measures.
Official Declaration Shows Significant Apprehension
Religious authorities voiced being troubled by potential violations of the sanctity of churches 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.
Climate of Fear
In their message, the religious figures described what they termed "a environment of apprehension around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.
They expressed being disappointed by the current discussion and demonization of immigrants, while rejecting what they referred to as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Additional Concerns
The bishops also expressed significant concerns about:
- Situations in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of legal status for certain immigrants
- Insufficiency in comprehensive immigration system improvements
Procedural Adjustments
The White House has pursued an stringent border policy since taking office, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration arrests near designated sites such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The declaration parallels equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "serious consideration about the way immigrants are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This represents the premier formal statement of its type in over a decade, emphasizing the gravity of the religious authorities' apprehensions about existing enforcement approaches.
