American Catholic Bishops Condemn Trump Administration Border Enforcement

Via a uncommon public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has issued a strong condemnation of the Trump administration's border enforcement measures.

Special Message Reveals Significant Apprehension

Church leaders expressed being troubled by risks to the sanctity of houses of worship 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 bishops characterized what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of profiling" and border control measures.

They stated being disappointed by the ongoing debate and demonization of immigrants, while resisting what they called "the blanket expulsion of people."

Other Worries

Church authorities also expressed major apprehensions about:

• Circumstances in immigration detention centers
• Unjustified cancellation of authorized standing for various foreign nationals
• Lack of comprehensive immigration system improvements

Administrative Shifts

The White House has pursued an stringent border policy since taking office, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration apprehensions near designated sites such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.

Global Perspective

The declaration echoes comparable criticisms made by Pope Leo, who has urged "serious consideration about the way immigrants are being addressed in the US under Trump."

Broader Implications

This represents the first special message of its type in over a decade, emphasizing the significance of the church leaders' worries about present border measures.