American Roman Catholic Bishops Denounce White House Border Enforcement

Through a uncommon public statement, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has delivered a strong condemnation of the Trump administration's immigration policies.

Special Message Expresses Significant Apprehension

The bishops expressed being disturbed by potential violations of the sacred nature of religious sites and the special nature 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.

Atmosphere of Anxiety

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

They revealed being saddened by the current discussion and vilification of migrants, while resisting what they called "the widespread removal of people."

Further Issues

Religious leaders also expressed serious worries about:

• Conditions in border holding facilities
• Random revocation of authorized standing for some migrants
• Lack of substantial border policy changes

Policy Changes

The Trump administration has advanced an tough immigration approach since beginning the term, including revoking policies that limited immigration arrests near designated sites such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.

Global Perspective

The message echoes equivalent concerns made by the Catholic pontiff, who has urged "thorough contemplation about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under Trump."

Broader Implications

This constitutes the premier formal statement of its type in 12 years, underscoring the significance of the religious authorities' apprehensions about existing enforcement approaches.