US Catholic Bishops Denounce White House Immigration Enforcement
In a uncommon public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has released a strong condemnation of the White House's immigration policies.
Formal Statement Shows Significant Apprehension
Church leaders stated being troubled by risks to the sacred nature of religious sites and the special nature 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.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Through their statement, the church leaders described what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of targeting" and border control measures.
They stated being saddened by the current discussion and negative portrayal of immigrants, while resisting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Further Issues
Religious leaders also voiced major apprehensions about:
- Conditions in immigration detention centers
- Unjustified cancellation of legal status for some migrants
- Lack of meaningful immigration reform
Procedural Adjustments
Federal authorities has pursued an stringent border policy since beginning the term, including rescinding policies that curtailed immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Global Perspective
The statement echoes similar critiques made by Pope Leo, who has called for "thorough contemplation about the way immigrants are being addressed in the US under the current administration."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the initial official declaration of its nature in over a decade, underscoring the seriousness of the church leaders' worries about present border measures.
