US Catholic Church Leaders Criticize White House Border Policies
In a infrequent official declaration, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a strong condemnation of the White House's border enforcement measures.
Official Declaration Shows Deep Concern
The bishops stated being troubled by threats against the sanctity 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.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Through their statement, the bishops characterized what they labeled "a environment of apprehension around questions of profiling" and border control measures.
They revealed being disappointed by the current discussion and demonization of immigrants, while opposing what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Additional Concerns
The bishops also expressed major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Random revocation of authorized standing for some migrants
- Lack of substantial border policy changes
Administrative Shifts
Federal authorities has advanced an tough immigration approach since taking office, including revoking policies that restricted immigration apprehensions near protected areas such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Global Perspective
The declaration mirrors equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under Trump."
Extended Ramifications
This constitutes the initial formal statement of its nature in over a decade, emphasizing the significance of the church leaders' worries about existing enforcement approaches.
