US Roman Catholic Bishops Denounce White House Immigration Enforcement
Via a infrequent public statement, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a firm denunciation of the Trump administration's border enforcement measures.
Official Declaration Reveals Serious Worry
Church leaders expressed being troubled by potential violations of the sanctity of churches and the protected status of healthcare centers and learning establishments.
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
Within their declaration, the bishops portrayed what they termed "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement.
They stated being saddened by the current discussion and vilification of migrants, while resisting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also raised significant concerns about:
- Conditions in border holding facilities
- Arbitrary removal of legal status for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform
Administrative Shifts
Federal authorities has advanced an tough immigration approach since beginning the term, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration detentions near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Worldwide Dimension
The declaration parallels equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Extended Ramifications
This represents the premier official declaration of its nature in 12 years, underscoring the significance of the religious authorities' apprehensions about existing enforcement approaches.
