US Catholic Church Leaders Criticize White House Border Enforcement
Via a rare formal message, America's Catholic bishop leadership has released a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's border enforcement measures.
Special Message Shows Deep Concern
Church leaders expressed being concerned by threats against the sanctity of religious sites and the unique character 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
Through their statement, the religious figures characterized what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement.
They revealed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and negative portrayal of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
The bishops also voiced major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Unjustified cancellation of official documentation for various foreign nationals
- Absence of substantial border policy changes
Administrative Shifts
The Trump administration has advanced an stringent border policy since beginning the term, including rescinding policies that restricted immigration apprehensions near designated sites such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Worldwide Dimension
The declaration echoes comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way migrants are being addressed in the US under the current administration."
Wider Consequences
This represents the premier formal statement of its type in more than ten years, emphasizing the seriousness of the religious authorities' apprehensions about current immigration policies.
