US Roman Catholic Bishops Denounce Trump Administration Border Policies

Through a infrequent official declaration, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has delivered a sharp criticism of the Trump administration's border enforcement measures.

Special Message Expresses Serious Worry

Religious authorities expressed being troubled by threats against the sacred nature of religious sites and the special nature of healthcare centers and learning establishments.

Countries bear the duty to manage their boundaries and create fair, organized immigration frameworks for the benefit of all.

Climate of Fear

Within their declaration, the church leaders described what they called "a climate of fear around questions of profiling" and border control measures.

They expressed being disheartened by the current discussion and demonization of immigrants, while opposing what they called "the widespread removal of people."

Other Worries

The bishops also raised serious worries about:

• Situations in migrant detention facilities
• Random revocation of official documentation for various foreign nationals
• Absence of meaningful immigration reform

Policy Changes

Federal authorities has pursued an tough immigration approach since assuming power, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration detentions near protected areas such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.

International Context

The declaration parallels comparable criticisms made by the Catholic pontiff, who has called for "serious consideration about the way migrants are being treated in the US under present leadership."

Wider Consequences

This represents the first special message of its type in 12 years, underscoring the significance of the bishops' concerns about current immigration policies.