🔗 Share this article American Roman Catholic Bishops Denounce White House Immigration Enforcement Through a infrequent public statement, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a sharp criticism of the White House's immigration policies. Official Declaration Reveals Serious Worry Religious authorities voiced being disturbed by potential violations of the special status of religious sites and the unique character of healthcare centers and learning establishments. 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 described what they termed "a climate of fear around questions of profiling" and immigration enforcement. They expressed being saddened by the current discussion and demonization of immigrants, while rejecting what they described as "the indiscriminate mass deportation of people." Further Issues Church authorities also expressed major apprehensions about: Circumstances in immigration detention centers Arbitrary removal of official documentation for certain immigrants Insufficiency in substantial border policy changes Policy Changes The Trump administration has pursued an tough immigration approach since taking office, including eliminating policies that limited immigration arrests near sensitive locations such as churches, hospitals and schools. International Context The statement parallels similar critiques made by the Vatican leader, who has urged "deep reflection about the way immigrants are being treated in the US under present leadership." Wider Consequences This constitutes the initial special message of its nature in more than ten years, emphasizing the significance of the bishops' concerns about present border measures.