US Catholic Bishops Denounce Trump Administration Border Enforcement
Through a infrequent official declaration, America's Catholic bishop leadership has released a firm denunciation of the White House's border enforcement measures.
Formal Statement Shows Serious Worry
The bishops expressed being disturbed by potential violations of the sacred nature 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 religious figures described what they termed "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement.
They expressed being disheartened by the current discussion and negative portrayal of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
Church authorities also raised serious worries about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Arbitrary removal of official documentation for various foreign nationals
- Lack of meaningful immigration reform
Administrative Shifts
The White House has pursued an aggressive immigration agenda since assuming power, including revoking policies that limited immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement mirrors comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under Trump."
Extended Ramifications
This represents the initial formal statement of its nature in more than ten years, underscoring the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.
