American Catholic Bishops Denounce Trump Administration Immigration Policies
Through a rare formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has released a firm denunciation of the Trump administration's border enforcement measures.
Special Message Expresses Serious Worry
The bishops expressed being disturbed by risks to the sanctity of religious sites and the special nature of healthcare centers and learning establishments.
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 described what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.
They expressed being disheartened by the current discussion and vilification of migrants, while rejecting what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
Religious leaders also raised major apprehensions about:
- Situations in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of official documentation for various foreign nationals
- Lack of substantial border policy changes
Administrative Shifts
The Trump administration has implemented an aggressive immigration agenda since assuming power, including rescinding policies that restricted immigration arrests near designated sites such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
International Context
The message mirrors equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way immigrants are being addressed in the US under present leadership."
Broader Implications
This marks the first formal statement of its nature in more than ten years, emphasizing the gravity of the church leaders' worries about present border measures.
