American Catholic Bishops Denounce White House Border Enforcement
Via a uncommon public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Special Message Expresses Significant Apprehension
Church leaders expressed being troubled by threats against the sanctity of churches and the protected status of hospitals and schools.
Countries bear the duty to manage their boundaries and create fair, organized immigration frameworks for the benefit of all.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Through their statement, the bishops characterized what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of profiling" and border control measures.
They stated being disappointed by the present discourse and negative portrayal of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Further Issues
Church authorities also raised major apprehensions about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Random revocation of authorized standing for certain immigrants
- Insufficiency in substantial border policy changes
Policy Changes
The Trump administration has advanced an aggressive immigration agenda since taking office, including rescinding policies that curtailed immigration arrests near protected areas such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The message echoes similar critiques made by Pope Leo, who has urged "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under Trump."
Extended Ramifications
This marks the premier formal statement of its type in over a decade, emphasizing the gravity of the bishops' concerns about present border measures.
