US Catholic Bishops Condemn White House Immigration Enforcement
In a uncommon formal message, the national Catholic bishops organization has issued a strong condemnation of the Trump administration's border enforcement measures.
Special Message Expresses Significant Apprehension
Religious authorities expressed being disturbed by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the unique character of healthcare centers and learning establishments.
Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
In their message, the religious figures described what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement.
They expressed being disheartened by the current discussion and demonization of immigrants, while rejecting what they called "the widespread removal of people."
Further Issues
Church authorities also expressed serious worries about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in comprehensive immigration system improvements
Administrative Shifts
The White House has implemented an stringent border policy since assuming power, including eliminating policies that limited immigration detentions near sensitive locations such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement echoes equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "serious consideration about the way immigrants are being handled in the US under Trump."
Broader Implications
This constitutes the premier formal statement of its nature in over a decade, underscoring the seriousness of the church leaders' worries about present border measures.
