🔗 Share this article American Catholic Bishops Condemn White House Border Policies Via a uncommon public statement, the national Catholic bishops organization has issued a strong condemnation of the Trump administration's immigration policies. Formal Statement Reveals Serious Worry Religious authorities voiced being concerned 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. Environment of Apprehension In their message, the bishops described what they called "a climate of fear around questions of targeting" and immigration policies. They stated being saddened by the ongoing debate and vilification of migrants, while opposing what they called "the widespread removal of people." Additional Concerns Religious leaders also raised significant concerns about: Conditions in border holding facilities Random revocation of official documentation for some migrants Insufficiency in meaningful immigration reform Administrative Shifts Federal authorities has advanced an aggressive immigration agenda since taking office, including revoking policies that restricted immigration arrests near protected areas such as churches, hospitals and schools. International Context The declaration echoes comparable criticisms made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "serious consideration about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under the current administration." Wider Consequences This constitutes the first formal statement of its type in 12 years, underscoring the seriousness of the church leaders' worries about current immigration policies.