American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Denounce White House Immigration Policies
Via a uncommon official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has delivered a sharp criticism of the White House's immigration policies.
Special Message Expresses Serious Worry
The bishops voiced being disturbed by threats against the sanctity 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 described what they called "a climate of fear around questions of profiling" and immigration policies.
They expressed being disappointed by the current discussion and demonization of migrants, while rejecting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."
Further Issues
Religious leaders also voiced significant concerns about:
- Conditions in migrant detention facilities
- Arbitrary removal of official documentation for various foreign nationals
- Lack of meaningful immigration reform
Administrative Shifts
Federal authorities has pursued an aggressive immigration agenda since beginning the term, including revoking policies that curtailed immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The declaration parallels similar critiques made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "deep reflection about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under Trump."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the premier official declaration of its nature in over a decade, emphasizing the gravity of the religious authorities' apprehensions about current immigration policies.