American Roman Catholic Church Leaders Condemn White House Immigration Enforcement
Through a infrequent official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has released a firm denunciation of the White House's border enforcement measures.
Formal Statement Reveals Serious Worry
Religious authorities stated being concerned by threats against the sanctity of churches and the special nature 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
Within their declaration, the church leaders portrayed what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of profiling" and immigration policies.
They expressed being saddened by the ongoing debate and demonization of immigrants, while resisting what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people."
Other Worries
The bishops also raised serious worries about:
- Circumstances in immigration detention centers
- Random revocation of official documentation for various foreign nationals
- Insufficiency in comprehensive immigration system improvements
Policy Changes
Federal authorities has advanced an stringent border policy since assuming power, including rescinding policies that restricted immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as churches, hospitals and schools.
Global Perspective
The declaration echoes similar critiques made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under present leadership."
Extended Ramifications
This marks the premier official declaration of its type in 12 years, emphasizing the seriousness of the religious authorities' apprehensions about current immigration policies.
