American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Criticize Trump Administration Immigration Enforcement
Through a rare formal message, the national Catholic bishops organization has issued a strong condemnation of the White House's border enforcement measures.
Formal Statement Shows Serious Worry
Church leaders voiced being disturbed by threats against the sacred nature of houses of worship and the unique character of healthcare centers and learning establishments.
Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.
Environment of Apprehension
Within their declaration, the bishops described what they termed "a climate of fear around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.
They expressed being disappointed by the current discussion and demonization of foreign nationals, while resisting what they described as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Further Issues
The bishops also voiced serious worries about:
- Situations in border holding facilities
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Absence of meaningful immigration reform
Procedural Adjustments
Federal authorities has pursued an tough immigration approach since beginning the term, including rescinding policies that limited immigration arrests near protected areas such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Worldwide Dimension
The declaration mirrors similar critiques made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "deep reflection about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under present leadership."
Broader Implications
This constitutes the premier special message of its kind in 12 years, emphasizing the gravity of the church leaders' worries about existing enforcement approaches.
