US Catholic Church Leaders Denounce Trump Administration Border Policies
In a infrequent formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has released a sharp criticism of the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Formal Statement Shows Significant Apprehension
Religious authorities expressed being disturbed by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the special nature 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.
Climate of Fear
In their message, the church leaders characterized what they termed "a environment of apprehension around questions of targeting" and immigration enforcement.
They expressed being disappointed by the current discussion and vilification of migrants, while opposing what they described as "the widespread removal of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also raised major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Random revocation of legal status for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform
Administrative Shifts
The Trump administration has implemented an aggressive immigration agenda since assuming power, including rescinding policies that curtailed immigration apprehensions near sensitive locations such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement parallels similar critiques made by the Vatican leader, who has called for "serious consideration about the way migrants are being treated in the US under the current administration."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the premier formal statement of its kind in more than ten years, highlighting the gravity of the religious authorities' apprehensions about current immigration policies.
