American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Condemn Trump Administration Immigration Policies
In a uncommon formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Formal Statement Expresses Deep Concern
Church leaders stated being disturbed by risks to the sacred nature of religious sites and the protected status of healthcare centers and learning establishments.
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
In their message, the religious figures described what they termed "a climate of fear around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.
They stated being saddened by the present discourse and vilification of foreign nationals, while resisting what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Further Issues
The bishops also voiced major apprehensions about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Arbitrary removal of official documentation for certain immigrants
- Insufficiency in comprehensive immigration system improvements
Policy Changes
Federal authorities has implemented an tough immigration approach since taking office, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Worldwide Dimension
The message echoes similar critiques made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "serious consideration about the way migrants are being handled in the US under Trump."
Extended Ramifications
This constitutes the first formal statement of its nature in over a decade, highlighting the gravity of the church leaders' worries about current immigration policies.