American Roman Catholic Bishops Denounce Trump Administration Border Policies
Via a rare official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has delivered a firm denunciation of President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown.
Formal Statement Reveals Significant Apprehension
The bishops voiced being disturbed by risks to the special status of religious sites and the protected status of healthcare centers and learning establishments.
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 religious figures portrayed what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of discrimination" and immigration policies.
They revealed being disheartened by the current discussion and negative portrayal of migrants, while opposing what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also expressed major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Arbitrary removal of official documentation for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in substantial border policy changes
Policy Changes
Federal authorities has pursued an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including revoking policies that limited immigration arrests near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Global Perspective
The message mirrors comparable criticisms made by the Vatican leader, who has called for "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being treated in the US under the current administration."
Extended Ramifications
This marks the initial official declaration of its kind in more than ten years, highlighting the gravity of the church leaders' worries about current immigration policies.
