American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Denounce White House Border Enforcement
Via a infrequent official declaration, the national Catholic bishops organization has released a sharp criticism of the Trump administration's border enforcement measures.
Special Message Shows Significant Apprehension
Church leaders voiced being troubled by threats against the special status of churches and the unique character of hospitals and schools.
Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.
Climate of Fear
Through their statement, the bishops portrayed what they labeled "a environment of apprehension around questions of profiling" and immigration policies.
They stated being disheartened by the current discussion and vilification of migrants, while resisting what they referred to as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Other Worries
The bishops also raised serious worries about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Random revocation of legal status for some migrants
- Lack of meaningful immigration reform
Policy Changes
Federal authorities has advanced an stringent border policy since taking office, including rescinding policies that curtailed immigration apprehensions near designated sites such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement echoes equivalent concerns made by Pope Leo, who has advocated for "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being treated in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the premier formal statement of its nature in more than ten years, underscoring the gravity of the bishops' concerns about present border measures.
