US Roman Catholic Bishops Criticize Trump Administration Border Enforcement
In a infrequent official declaration, the national Catholic bishops organization has delivered a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown.
Special Message Shows Significant Apprehension
The bishops expressed being disturbed by threats against the special status of houses of worship and the special nature of healthcare centers and learning establishments.
Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Within their declaration, the church leaders described what they termed "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.
They expressed being saddened by the current discussion and vilification of migrants, while rejecting what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
The bishops also raised serious worries about:
- Situations in immigration detention centers
- Random revocation of official documentation for some migrants
- Absence of substantial border policy changes
Administrative Shifts
Federal authorities has pursued an stringent border policy since beginning the term, including rescinding policies that limited immigration arrests near protected areas such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
International Context
The declaration echoes comparable criticisms made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way migrants are being addressed in the US under Trump."
Extended Ramifications
This marks the first official declaration of its kind in over a decade, highlighting the gravity of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.
