American Roman Catholic Bishops Denounce Trump Administration Immigration Policies
Via a infrequent official declaration, the national Catholic bishops organization has issued a strong condemnation of the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Special Message Shows Deep Concern
Religious authorities stated being troubled by risks to the special status of religious sites and the unique character of hospitals and schools.
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 church leaders portrayed what they labeled "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of profiling" and border control measures.
They revealed being disheartened by the ongoing debate and vilification of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they called "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Other Worries
Church authorities also raised serious worries about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Arbitrary removal of official documentation for various foreign nationals
- Lack of substantial border policy changes
Administrative Shifts
The Trump administration has implemented an stringent border policy since taking office, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
International Context
The declaration parallels similar critiques made by the Vatican leader, who has called for "serious consideration about the way migrants are being treated in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the first special message of its type in over a decade, emphasizing the gravity of the church leaders' worries about present border measures.
