US Catholic Bishops Condemn White House Border Enforcement
In a infrequent public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a strong condemnation of the White House's immigration policies.
Formal Statement Reveals Significant Apprehension
The bishops expressed being troubled by risks to the sacred nature of religious sites and the special nature of healthcare centers and learning establishments.
Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.
Climate of Fear
In their message, the bishops described what they labeled "a climate of fear around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.
They revealed being disappointed by the current discussion and demonization of immigrants, while opposing what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Additional Concerns
The bishops also raised serious worries about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in substantial border policy changes
Administrative Shifts
The White House has pursued an stringent border policy since taking office, including rescinding policies that restricted immigration arrests near designated sites such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Global Perspective
The statement mirrors equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has advocated for "deep reflection about the way immigrants are being handled in the US under the current administration."
Wider Consequences
This represents the first special message of its kind in 12 years, highlighting the seriousness of the church leaders' worries about existing enforcement approaches.
