US Roman Catholic Church Leaders Denounce Trump Administration Border Policies
Via a rare formal message, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has released a strong condemnation of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown.
Special Message Expresses Significant Apprehension
Religious authorities voiced being concerned by threats against the special status of churches and the unique character 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.
Climate of Fear
In their message, the religious figures described what they termed "a climate of fear around questions of discrimination" and immigration enforcement.
They expressed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and vilification of foreign nationals, while opposing what they called "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also voiced major apprehensions about:
- Situations in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of legal status for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in substantial border policy changes
Procedural Adjustments
The Trump administration has pursued an tough immigration approach since beginning the term, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration arrests near protected areas such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The declaration parallels equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "thorough contemplation about the way immigrants are being addressed in the US under the current administration."
Extended Ramifications
This constitutes the initial special message of its kind in over a decade, highlighting the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.
