American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Denounce White House Border Policies
In a infrequent formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has released a sharp criticism of the White House's border enforcement measures.
Formal Statement Reveals Serious Worry
Church leaders stated being troubled by risks to the special status of houses of worship and the protected status of hospitals and schools.
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.
Environment of Apprehension
In their message, the bishops portrayed what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of discrimination" and immigration enforcement.
They stated being disappointed by the present discourse and vilification of immigrants, while resisting what they described as "the widespread removal of people."
Other Worries
The bishops also voiced major apprehensions about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Arbitrary removal of official documentation for various foreign nationals
- Lack of substantial border policy changes
Administrative Shifts
The White House has implemented an tough immigration approach since taking office, including revoking policies that curtailed immigration arrests near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Global Perspective
The declaration mirrors equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under the current administration."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the initial special message of its nature in more than ten years, underscoring the gravity of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.
