American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Criticize Trump Administration Immigration Enforcement
In a uncommon official declaration, the national Catholic bishops organization has issued a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown.
Formal Statement Shows Deep Concern
Religious authorities stated being concerned by threats against the special status of religious sites and the special nature 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.
Climate of Fear
Within their declaration, the bishops portrayed what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of targeting" and immigration enforcement.
They revealed being disheartened by the ongoing debate and demonization of immigrants, while resisting what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Additional Concerns
Church authorities also voiced major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Arbitrary removal of legal status for certain immigrants
- Absence of comprehensive immigration system improvements
Administrative Shifts
Federal authorities has pursued an stringent border policy since taking office, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration apprehensions near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Global Perspective
The message parallels comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under present leadership."
Extended Ramifications
This marks the premier special message of its nature in over a decade, emphasizing the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.
