American Catholic Bishops Criticize Trump Administration Border Enforcement
In a rare formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Special Message Expresses Deep Concern
Religious authorities expressed being troubled by risks to the special status of churches and the protected status of healthcare centers and learning establishments.
Countries bear the duty to manage their boundaries and create fair, organized immigration frameworks for the benefit of all.
Climate of Fear
Within their declaration, the bishops portrayed what they called "a climate of fear around questions of targeting" and immigration policies.
They stated being saddened by the present discourse and demonization of migrants, while opposing what they called "the widespread removal of people."
Further Issues
The bishops also voiced major apprehensions about:
- Situations in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Absence of meaningful immigration reform
Procedural Adjustments
The White House has pursued an stringent border policy since assuming power, including rescinding policies that restricted immigration apprehensions near designated sites such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Global Perspective
The message mirrors similar critiques made by Pope Leo, who has called for "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This marks the premier formal statement of its kind in 12 years, highlighting the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.