American Catholic Church Leaders Denounce White House Border Policies
Via a uncommon formal message, the national Catholic bishops organization has issued a sharp criticism of the White House's border enforcement measures.
Formal Statement Reveals Significant Apprehension
Religious authorities expressed being troubled by potential violations of 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.
Environment of Apprehension
Through their statement, the religious figures characterized what they termed "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of targeting" and border control measures.
They expressed being disappointed by the current discussion and demonization of migrants, while resisting what they called "the widespread removal of people."
Other Worries
The bishops also expressed serious worries about:
- Circumstances in migrant detention facilities
- Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for certain immigrants
- Absence of substantial border policy changes
Policy Changes
The White House has advanced an stringent border policy since taking office, including revoking policies that curtailed immigration apprehensions near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Worldwide Dimension
The statement echoes equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "serious consideration about the way migrants are being addressed in the US under the current administration."
Wider Consequences
This constitutes the initial formal statement of its nature in over a decade, emphasizing the seriousness of the religious authorities' apprehensions about existing enforcement approaches.
