US Catholic Bishops Denounce Trump Administration Immigration Policies
Through a rare official declaration, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a strong condemnation of the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Special Message Reveals Deep Concern
The bishops voiced being concerned by threats against the special status of churches and the special nature of medical facilities and educational institutions.
Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.
Environment of Apprehension
Through their statement, the bishops described what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of targeting" and immigration enforcement.
They expressed being saddened by the current discussion and vilification of immigrants, while rejecting what they described as "the widespread removal of people."
Further Issues
Church authorities also expressed major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Random revocation of authorized standing for some migrants
- Lack of substantial border policy changes
Administrative Shifts
The White House has implemented an tough immigration approach since taking office, including rescinding policies that restricted immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement parallels comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "serious consideration about the way immigrants are being treated in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the premier formal statement of its nature in over a decade, underscoring the gravity of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.