American Catholic Bishops Condemn Trump Administration Immigration Policies
In a rare public statement, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a strong condemnation of the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Formal Statement Reveals Serious Worry
Religious authorities voiced being troubled by threats against the special status of churches and the special nature 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.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Through their statement, the church leaders portrayed what they called "a climate of fear around questions of profiling" and border control measures.
They revealed being saddened by the present discourse and demonization of migrants, while rejecting what they referred to as "the widespread removal of people."
Further Issues
The bishops also expressed significant concerns about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Random revocation of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Lack of comprehensive immigration system improvements
Administrative Shifts
The White House has advanced an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration detentions near designated sites such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
International Context
The message echoes equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has called for "serious consideration about the way immigrants are being handled in the US under Trump."
Broader Implications
This marks the initial formal statement of its type in 12 years, highlighting the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.
