US Catholic Bishops Criticize White House Border Policies
In a infrequent formal message, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has released a firm denunciation of President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown.
Official Declaration Shows Deep Concern
Religious authorities voiced being troubled by threats against the sacred nature of religious sites and the special nature of hospitals and schools.
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.
Environment of Apprehension
In their message, the bishops characterized what they labeled "a environment of apprehension around questions of profiling" and border control measures.
They expressed being disheartened by the current discussion and vilification of foreign nationals, while resisting what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Additional Concerns
The bishops also expressed serious worries about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Random revocation of authorized standing for certain immigrants
- Lack of comprehensive immigration system improvements
Administrative Shifts
The Trump administration has pursued an stringent border policy since beginning the term, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement parallels equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has advocated for "deep reflection about the way migrants are being treated in the US under the current administration."
Wider Consequences
This represents the initial official declaration of its nature in 12 years, emphasizing the significance of the religious authorities' apprehensions about present border measures.