American Roman Catholic Bishops Denounce Trump Administration Border Enforcement
Via a infrequent public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a strong condemnation of the White House's border enforcement measures.
Official Declaration Reveals Serious Worry
The bishops voiced being troubled by risks to the special status of houses of worship and the protected status 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 church leaders characterized what they labeled "a environment of apprehension around questions of discrimination" and immigration policies.
They stated being saddened by the present discourse and vilification of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they referred to as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Further Issues
Religious leaders also expressed significant concerns about:
- Conditions in migrant detention facilities
- Arbitrary removal of legal status for some migrants
- Absence of meaningful immigration reform
Policy Changes
The Trump administration has implemented an stringent border policy since assuming power, including rescinding policies that curtailed immigration arrests near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools.
International Context
The declaration parallels equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "deep reflection about the way migrants are being addressed in the US under Trump."
Wider Consequences
This marks the initial official declaration of its kind in 12 years, underscoring the significance of the bishops' concerns about present border measures.
