American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Condemn White House Border Policies
Via a rare official declaration, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a strong condemnation of the White House's immigration policies.
Special Message Reveals Deep Concern
Church leaders expressed being troubled by risks to the special status of churches and the special nature 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.
Climate of Fear
In their message, the church leaders portrayed what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of targeting" and immigration policies.
They expressed being disappointed by the present discourse and demonization of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Additional Concerns
Religious leaders also expressed major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of official documentation for various foreign nationals
- Lack of substantial border policy changes
Administrative Shifts
Federal authorities has pursued an stringent border policy since taking office, including revoking policies that restricted immigration apprehensions near sensitive locations such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Worldwide Dimension
The declaration parallels comparable criticisms made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "deep reflection about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under Trump."
Extended Ramifications
This represents the premier official declaration of its type in over a decade, highlighting the gravity of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.
