US Catholic Church Leaders Condemn White House Immigration Policies

In a uncommon public statement, the national Catholic bishops organization has issued a sharp criticism of President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown.

Formal Statement Expresses Serious Worry

The bishops stated being troubled by risks to the sacred nature of houses of worship and the protected status 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

In their message, the bishops portrayed what they called "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement.

They revealed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and vilification of immigrants, while resisting what they referred to as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."

Other Worries

Religious leaders also raised serious worries about:

• Circumstances in border holding facilities
• Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for some migrants
• Lack of comprehensive immigration system improvements

Procedural Adjustments

Federal authorities has implemented an aggressive immigration agenda since taking office, including revoking policies that curtailed immigration detentions near protected areas such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.

International Context

The message mirrors similar critiques made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way immigrants are being handled in the US under the current administration."

Wider Consequences

This constitutes the premier official declaration of its type in 12 years, emphasizing the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.