American Catholic Church Leaders Denounce White House Border Enforcement
Through a rare formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a firm denunciation of the White House's border enforcement measures.
Special Message Expresses Significant Apprehension
Church leaders voiced being troubled by potential violations of the sanctity of houses of worship and the protected status 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.
Environment of Apprehension
In their message, the bishops portrayed what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of targeting" and immigration enforcement.
They expressed being disappointed by the current discussion and demonization of foreign nationals, while opposing what they called "the widespread removal of people."
Additional Concerns
Church authorities also raised major apprehensions about:
- Situations in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of authorized standing for certain immigrants
- Insufficiency in substantial border policy changes
Policy Changes
Federal authorities has implemented an tough immigration approach since taking office, including rescinding policies that limited immigration arrests near designated sites such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Global Perspective
The message parallels equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under Trump."
Extended Ramifications
This constitutes the premier special message of its nature in 12 years, emphasizing the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.
