American Catholic Bishops Condemn Trump Administration Border Policies
Via a rare formal message, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has delivered a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Formal Statement Expresses Serious Worry
The bishops voiced being troubled by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the special nature of medical facilities and educational institutions.
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.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Through their statement, the bishops described what they termed "a climate of fear around questions of targeting" and immigration policies.
They stated being disheartened by the ongoing debate and demonization of foreign nationals, while resisting what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
The bishops also expressed major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in migrant detention facilities
- Random revocation of legal status for some migrants
- Lack of substantial border policy changes
Policy Changes
The White House has implemented an stringent border policy since assuming power, including rescinding policies that restricted immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Global Perspective
The message mirrors comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way migrants are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the premier special message of its kind in more than ten years, underscoring the seriousness of the church leaders' worries about present border measures.
