American Roman Catholic Bishops Condemn Trump Administration Border Policies
In a uncommon official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has released a sharp criticism of the White House's immigration policies.
Official Declaration Shows Significant Apprehension
The bishops voiced being disturbed by risks to the sacred nature of houses of worship and the protected status of medical facilities and educational institutions.
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.
Environment of Apprehension
Within their declaration, the bishops described what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of discrimination" and immigration enforcement.
They expressed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and demonization of immigrants, while opposing what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Further Issues
Religious leaders also expressed serious worries about:
- Conditions in border holding facilities
- Arbitrary removal of legal status for certain immigrants
- Absence of substantial border policy changes
Administrative Shifts
The Trump administration has pursued an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement parallels comparable criticisms made by the Vatican leader, who has called for "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being treated in the US under Trump."
Wider Consequences
This marks the first formal statement of its kind in more than ten years, emphasizing the significance of the church leaders' worries about existing enforcement approaches.
