American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Criticize Trump Administration Border Policies

Through a rare official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a firm denunciation of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown.

Formal Statement Reveals Significant Apprehension

The bishops stated being disturbed by potential violations of the sanctity of houses of worship and the special nature 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

Through their statement, the religious figures portrayed what they termed "a climate of fear around questions of profiling" and immigration policies.

They revealed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and negative portrayal of immigrants, while rejecting what they described as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."

Other Worries

Religious leaders also voiced significant concerns about:

• Circumstances in migrant detention facilities
• Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for certain immigrants
• Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform

Policy Changes

The Trump administration has advanced an aggressive immigration agenda since beginning the term, including rescinding policies that curtailed immigration detentions near protected areas such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.

Global Perspective

The message parallels equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "deep reflection about the way immigrants are being handled in the US under the current administration."

Extended Ramifications

This constitutes the first special message of its kind in more than ten years, highlighting the gravity of the bishops' concerns about present border measures.