US Catholic Bishops Denounce White House Immigration Policies

Via a infrequent formal message, the national Catholic bishops organization has issued a strong condemnation of the White House's immigration crackdown.

Formal Statement Shows Serious Worry

Church leaders voiced being disturbed by threats against the special status of houses of worship and the protected status of hospitals and schools.

Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare.

Climate of Fear

Within their declaration, the bishops characterized what they called "a environment of apprehension around questions of profiling" and border control measures.

They stated being disheartened by the current discussion and vilification of foreign nationals, while opposing what they referred to as "the blanket expulsion of people."

Other Worries

Religious leaders also voiced major apprehensions about:

• Situations in immigration detention centers
• Arbitrary removal of legal status for various foreign nationals
• Absence of comprehensive immigration system improvements

Policy Changes

The White House has implemented an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including revoking policies that curtailed immigration detentions near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools.

Worldwide Dimension

The declaration parallels comparable criticisms made by Pope Leo, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being addressed in the US under present leadership."

Extended Ramifications

This constitutes the premier formal statement of its type in 12 years, highlighting the gravity of the church leaders' worries about existing enforcement approaches.