US Catholic Bishops Condemn White House Border Policies
In a infrequent official declaration, the national Catholic bishops organization has released a sharp criticism of the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Formal Statement Shows Serious Worry
The bishops expressed being troubled by risks to the special status 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.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Through their statement, the bishops described what they termed "a environment of apprehension around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.
They stated being disappointed by the present discourse and negative portrayal of immigrants, while resisting what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
Church authorities also voiced serious worries about:
- Situations in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of legal status for some migrants
- Insufficiency in substantial border policy changes
Procedural Adjustments
Federal authorities has pursued an aggressive immigration agenda since beginning the term, including revoking policies that restricted immigration apprehensions near designated sites such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement echoes similar critiques made by Pope Leo, who has called for "deep reflection about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the initial official declaration of its type in more than ten years, emphasizing the significance of the religious authorities' apprehensions about existing enforcement approaches.
