American Roman Catholic Bishops Condemn Trump Administration Immigration Enforcement
In a rare public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Formal Statement Reveals Serious Worry
The bishops expressed being troubled by risks to the sacred nature of churches and the unique character 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.
Environment of Apprehension
In their message, the bishops described what they termed "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of discrimination" and immigration policies.
They revealed being disheartened by the current discussion and demonization of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they called "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Other Worries
The bishops also voiced major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Unjustified cancellation of official documentation for some migrants
- Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform
Administrative Shifts
The Trump administration has advanced an aggressive immigration agenda since beginning the term, including revoking policies that restricted immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement mirrors equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under Trump."
Wider Consequences
This represents the premier formal statement of its nature in more than ten years, underscoring the seriousness of the religious authorities' apprehensions about present border measures.
