American Roman Catholic Bishops Criticize White House Border Enforcement

Via a rare public statement, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has delivered a strong condemnation of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.

Special Message Shows Deep Concern

Church leaders voiced being disturbed by risks to the sacred nature of religious sites and the unique character of hospitals and schools.

We recognize that nations have a responsibility to regulate their borders and establish a just and orderly immigration system for the sake of the common good.

Climate of Fear

In their message, the religious figures characterized what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement.

They stated being disheartened by the current discussion and vilification of migrants, while opposing what they referred to as "the widespread removal of people."

Other Worries

The bishops also voiced major apprehensions about:

• Situations in immigration detention centers
• Random revocation of official documentation for certain immigrants
• Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform

Policy Changes

The White House has advanced an tough immigration approach since beginning the term, including revoking policies that limited immigration apprehensions near protected areas such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.

Worldwide Dimension

The message mirrors comparable criticisms made by Pope Leo, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way migrants are being addressed in the US under Trump."

Broader Implications

This constitutes the first formal statement of its type in 12 years, emphasizing the significance of the religious authorities' apprehensions about current immigration policies.