American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Condemn White House Immigration Policies
Via a rare official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Official Declaration Expresses Serious Worry
The bishops voiced being disturbed by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the protected status of medical facilities and educational institutions.
Countries bear the duty to manage their boundaries and create fair, organized immigration frameworks for the benefit of all.
Environment of Apprehension
Through their statement, the bishops described what they termed "a climate of fear around questions of targeting" and immigration policies.
They expressed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and vilification of migrants, while opposing what they called "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Further Issues
The bishops also expressed significant concerns about:
- Circumstances in migrant detention facilities
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Absence of substantial border policy changes
Policy Changes
Federal authorities has implemented an aggressive immigration agenda since assuming power, including rescinding policies that curtailed immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Worldwide Dimension
The declaration echoes equivalent concerns made by the Vatican leader, who has advocated for "serious consideration about the way migrants are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Extended Ramifications
This marks the initial official declaration of its nature in over a decade, emphasizing the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about present border measures.
