American Catholic Church Leaders Denounce Trump Administration Border Policies
In a infrequent formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a firm denunciation of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Formal Statement Shows Deep Concern
Church leaders stated being disturbed by risks to the sanctity of churches and the protected status 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.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Within their declaration, the bishops characterized what they termed "a environment of apprehension around questions of discrimination" and immigration enforcement.
They revealed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and negative portrayal of migrants, while opposing what they described as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also voiced significant concerns about:
- Situations in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of authorized standing for some migrants
- Insufficiency in comprehensive immigration system improvements
Administrative Shifts
The Trump administration has pursued an aggressive immigration agenda since taking office, including eliminating policies that limited immigration apprehensions near sensitive locations such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The declaration mirrors equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way migrants are being treated in the US under the current administration."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the premier official declaration of its type in over a decade, highlighting the gravity of the church leaders' worries about present border measures.
