American Catholic Bishops Condemn Trump Administration Border Policies
Via a rare public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a strong condemnation of the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Formal Statement Shows Serious Worry
The bishops expressed being troubled by risks to the special status of houses of worship and the special nature of hospitals and schools.
Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Through their statement, the bishops characterized what they labeled "a climate of fear around questions of profiling" and immigration policies.
They revealed being disheartened by the current discussion and vilification of migrants, while opposing what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
The bishops also voiced major apprehensions about:
- Situations in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of legal status for some migrants
- Absence of meaningful immigration reform
Procedural Adjustments
Federal authorities has implemented an stringent border policy since taking office, including eliminating policies that limited immigration apprehensions near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Worldwide Dimension
The message echoes similar critiques made by the Vatican leader, who has advocated for "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This represents the premier formal statement of its nature in 12 years, emphasizing the gravity of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.
