American Catholic Bishops Criticize White House Immigration Enforcement
In a rare public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a strong condemnation of the Trump administration's border enforcement measures.
Official Declaration Shows Serious Worry
Religious authorities expressed being disturbed by threats against the special status of houses of worship and the protected status of medical facilities and educational institutions.
Countries bear the duty to manage their boundaries and create fair, organized immigration frameworks for the benefit of all.
Climate of Fear
In their message, the church leaders portrayed what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of targeting" and border control measures.
They expressed being saddened by the current discussion and negative portrayal of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they called "the widespread removal of people."
Further Issues
Church authorities also expressed serious worries about:
- Circumstances in migrant detention facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of official documentation for certain immigrants
- Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform
Administrative Shifts
Federal authorities has pursued an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration arrests near designated sites such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Global Perspective
The statement parallels equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has called for "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under the current administration."
Wider Consequences
This marks the premier official declaration of its nature in over a decade, emphasizing the seriousness of the religious authorities' apprehensions about present border measures.
