Via a uncommon public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has delivered a strong condemnation of the White House's border enforcement measures.
The bishops expressed being disturbed by risks to the sacred nature of religious sites and the protected status 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.
Through their statement, the religious figures portrayed what they labeled "a climate of fear around questions of discrimination" and border control measures.
They expressed being disappointed by the ongoing debate and negative portrayal of migrants, while resisting what they called "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people."
Religious leaders also expressed significant concerns about:
Federal authorities has pursued an stringent border policy since taking office, including eliminating policies that curtailed immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as places of worship, healthcare establishments and learning institutions.
The message parallels comparable criticisms made by the Vatican leader, who has advocated for "thorough contemplation about the way immigrants are being addressed in the US under the current administration."
This marks the premier special message of its kind in 12 years, emphasizing the gravity of the bishops' concerns about existing enforcement approaches.
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