US Roman Catholic Bishops Condemn White House Border Policies
In a uncommon official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has released a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Official Declaration Reveals Serious Worry
Church leaders voiced being troubled by risks to the sanctity of religious sites and the protected status 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
Through their statement, the bishops portrayed what they termed "a environment of apprehension around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.
They expressed being saddened by the current discussion and demonization of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
Religious leaders also expressed serious worries about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Random revocation of official documentation for some migrants
- Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform
Administrative Shifts
The White House has advanced an tough immigration approach since beginning the term, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement parallels similar critiques made by the Vatican leader, who has advocated for "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under Trump."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the initial official declaration of its type in over a decade, highlighting the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.
