US Roman Catholic Bishops Criticize White House Immigration Enforcement
Via a rare official declaration, the national Catholic bishops organization has issued a strong condemnation of the White House's immigration policies.
Formal Statement Shows Serious Worry
Religious authorities expressed being disturbed by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the protected status of medical facilities and educational institutions.
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
Within their declaration, the religious figures portrayed what they termed "a environment of apprehension around questions of targeting" and border control measures.
They revealed being disheartened by the present discourse and demonization of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they described as "the widespread removal of people."
Other Worries
Church authorities also raised major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in border holding facilities
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in substantial border policy changes
Procedural Adjustments
The White House has advanced an stringent border policy since taking office, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration arrests near protected areas such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Worldwide Dimension
The declaration mirrors similar critiques made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "deep reflection about the way immigrants are being handled in the US under the current administration."
Broader Implications
This marks the initial formal statement of its kind in over a decade, highlighting the gravity of the religious authorities' apprehensions about existing enforcement approaches.
