American Catholic Bishops Criticize White House Border Policies
Via a infrequent official declaration, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Official Declaration Shows Significant Apprehension
The bishops stated being troubled by threats against the sacred nature of religious sites and the special nature 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 labeled "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of profiling" and immigration policies.
They revealed being disheartened by the current discussion and negative portrayal of migrants, while resisting what they described as "the widespread removal of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also voiced serious worries about:
- Situations in migrant detention facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of legal status for various foreign nationals
- Lack of comprehensive immigration system improvements
Procedural Adjustments
The Trump administration has advanced an aggressive immigration agenda since beginning the term, including rescinding policies that curtailed immigration arrests near designated sites such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Global Perspective
The statement echoes equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "serious consideration about the way migrants are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Extended Ramifications
This marks the premier special message of its type in 12 years, emphasizing the gravity of the church leaders' worries about current immigration policies.
