American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Denounce White House Border Policies
In a infrequent formal message, the national Catholic bishops organization has delivered a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Special Message Reveals Serious Worry
Religious authorities expressed being concerned by potential violations of the sacred nature of religious sites and the protected status 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
Within their declaration, the bishops portrayed what they termed "a environment of apprehension around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.
They expressed being disheartened by the ongoing debate and negative portrayal of immigrants, while opposing what they referred to as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Additional Concerns
Church authorities also voiced major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of official documentation for certain immigrants
- Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform
Administrative Shifts
Federal authorities has implemented an stringent border policy since taking office, including rescinding policies that limited immigration detentions near designated sites such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Global Perspective
The declaration parallels equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "deep reflection about the way immigrants are being addressed in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This marks the premier formal statement of its nature in 12 years, emphasizing the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.
