American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Criticize Trump Administration Border Policies
Through a uncommon formal message, the national Catholic bishops organization has released a firm denunciation of the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Special Message Shows Deep Concern
Church leaders stated being troubled by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the protected status 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 bishops described what they termed "a climate of fear around questions of profiling" and immigration policies.
They revealed being disheartened by the ongoing debate and vilification of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Further Issues
The bishops also voiced major apprehensions about:
- Conditions in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in comprehensive immigration system improvements
Procedural Adjustments
The White House has implemented an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration arrests near designated sites such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Worldwide Dimension
The declaration echoes equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has advocated for "deep reflection about the way migrants are being addressed in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This marks the initial special message of its nature in more than ten years, underscoring the gravity of the church leaders' worries about current immigration policies.
