American Catholic Bishops Condemn White House Immigration Enforcement
Via a rare official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a strong condemnation of the White House's immigration policies.
Official Declaration Expresses Significant Apprehension
The bishops expressed being troubled by potential violations of the sacred nature of religious sites and the protected status of healthcare centers and learning establishments.
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 described what they termed "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of targeting" and immigration enforcement.
They revealed being saddened by the ongoing debate and demonization of migrants, while resisting what they described as "the widespread removal of people."
Other Worries
The bishops also voiced serious worries about:
- Circumstances in migrant detention facilities
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Lack of substantial border policy changes
Administrative Shifts
The White House has advanced an aggressive immigration agenda since taking office, including rescinding policies that limited immigration apprehensions near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Global Perspective
The declaration echoes equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way immigrants are being addressed in the US under the current administration."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the premier official declaration of its nature in more than ten years, emphasizing the gravity of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.
