US Roman Catholic Church Leaders Denounce Trump Administration Border Enforcement
In a rare public statement, the national Catholic bishops organization has released a firm denunciation of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Special Message Expresses Deep Concern
Religious authorities voiced being concerned by risks to the sacred nature 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
Within their declaration, the religious figures described what they termed "a environment of apprehension around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement.
They revealed being disheartened by the current discussion and vilification of foreign nationals, while opposing what they described as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Other Worries
Church authorities also raised significant concerns about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Absence of meaningful immigration reform
Policy Changes
Federal authorities has pursued an tough immigration approach since beginning the term, including revoking policies that curtailed immigration apprehensions near protected areas such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The declaration mirrors comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "deep reflection about the way immigrants are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This marks the initial official declaration of its nature in over a decade, underscoring the gravity of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.
