American Catholic Bishops Denounce White House Border Enforcement
Via a rare formal message, the national Catholic bishops organization has issued a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Official Declaration Reveals Significant Apprehension
Church leaders voiced being troubled by risks to the special status of churches and the protected status of medical facilities and educational institutions.
Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Within their declaration, the church leaders characterized what they called "a climate of fear around questions of targeting" and immigration enforcement.
They revealed being saddened by the present discourse and vilification of migrants, while opposing what they referred to as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Further Issues
Church authorities also expressed major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Unjustified cancellation of authorized standing for some migrants
- Insufficiency in substantial border policy changes
Policy Changes
The Trump administration has implemented an stringent border policy since taking office, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration detentions near protected areas such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
Global Perspective
The declaration echoes similar critiques made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under Trump."
Extended Ramifications
This marks the initial special message of its nature in 12 years, emphasizing the significance of the religious authorities' apprehensions about present border measures.
