US Roman Catholic Church Leaders Condemn White House Immigration Enforcement
In a uncommon formal message, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has delivered a firm denunciation of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Special Message Shows Significant Apprehension
The bishops stated being disturbed by potential violations of the special status of houses of worship and the protected status of medical facilities and educational institutions.
Countries bear the duty to manage their boundaries and create fair, organized immigration frameworks for the benefit of all.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Within their declaration, the church leaders portrayed what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of targeting" and immigration policies.
They expressed being disappointed by the current discussion and negative portrayal of immigrants, while resisting what they called "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Other Worries
Religious leaders also raised serious worries about:
- Situations in border holding facilities
- Arbitrary removal of legal status for various foreign nationals
- Absence of comprehensive immigration system improvements
Administrative Shifts
The White House has advanced an aggressive immigration agenda since assuming power, including revoking policies that curtailed immigration arrests near designated sites such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Worldwide Dimension
The message parallels similar critiques made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "deep reflection about the way migrants are being treated in the US under the current administration."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the premier special message of its type in 12 years, highlighting the gravity of the church leaders' worries about existing enforcement approaches.
