American Catholic Bishops Criticize Trump Administration Immigration Enforcement
In a uncommon public statement, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has released a firm denunciation of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Formal Statement Shows Significant Apprehension
The bishops expressed being concerned by threats against the special status of religious sites and the unique character 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.
Climate of Fear
Through their statement, the bishops described what they termed "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of profiling" and immigration policies.
They stated being saddened by the current discussion and demonization of immigrants, while resisting what they referred to as "the widespread removal of people."
Additional Concerns
The bishops also raised significant concerns about:
- Situations in border holding facilities
- Random revocation of legal status for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in comprehensive immigration system improvements
Procedural Adjustments
The White House has advanced an stringent border policy since beginning the term, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration arrests near designated sites such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
International Context
The statement echoes equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under present leadership."
Extended Ramifications
This marks the first formal statement of its type in 12 years, underscoring the gravity of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.
