American Catholic Church Leaders Criticize White House Border Policies
Via a infrequent official declaration, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's immigration policies.
Formal Statement Shows Serious Worry
The bishops stated being disturbed by threats against the sacred nature of houses of worship and the unique character of medical facilities and educational institutions.
Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.
Atmosphere of Anxiety
Within their declaration, the church leaders portrayed what they termed "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of targeting" and border control measures.
They expressed being saddened by the current discussion and negative portrayal of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they described as "the widespread removal of people."
Further Issues
Religious leaders also expressed major apprehensions about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Unjustified cancellation of authorized standing for certain immigrants
- Insufficiency in comprehensive immigration system improvements
Policy Changes
The White House has pursued an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including rescinding policies that restricted immigration arrests near designated sites such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
Global Perspective
The message mirrors comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "deep reflection about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Wider Consequences
This represents the initial formal statement of its kind in 12 years, underscoring the gravity of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.
