🔗 Share this article American Roman Catholic Bishops Condemn White House Border Policies In a uncommon formal message, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has released a strong condemnation of the White House's immigration policies. Official Declaration Shows Serious Worry Religious authorities expressed being troubled by potential violations of the special status of religious sites and the protected status of healthcare centers and learning establishments. Nations must maintain border control while developing equitable, systematic immigration processes that serve public welfare. Climate of Fear Within their declaration, the church leaders portrayed what they termed "a climate of fear around questions of targeting" and border control measures. They stated being disheartened by the ongoing debate and demonization of foreign nationals, while opposing what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people." Other Worries Religious leaders also expressed significant concerns about: Conditions in border holding facilities Arbitrary removal of authorized standing for various foreign nationals Absence of meaningful immigration reform Policy Changes The Trump administration has implemented an stringent border policy since beginning the term, including eliminating policies that restricted immigration arrests near designated sites such as churches, hospitals and schools. Global Perspective The declaration mirrors equivalent concerns made by Pope Leo, who has advocated for "deep reflection about the way foreign nationals are being handled in the US under the current administration." Wider Consequences This represents the first official declaration of its kind in 12 years, emphasizing the seriousness of the bishops' concerns about present border measures.