In a rare public statement, America's Catholic bishop leadership has released a sharp criticism of the Trump administration's immigration policies.
The bishops expressed being troubled by potential violations of the sacred nature 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.
Through their statement, the religious figures described what they labeled "a atmosphere of anxiety around questions of discrimination" and immigration enforcement.
They expressed being saddened by the ongoing debate and demonization of foreign nationals, while rejecting what they described as "the blanket expulsion of people."
The bishops also expressed major apprehensions about:
The Trump administration has pursued an tough immigration approach since beginning the term, including revoking policies that limited immigration apprehensions near designated sites such as religious institutions, medical facilities and educational centers.
The statement echoes similar critiques made by Pope Leo, who has urged "deep reflection about the way foreign nationals are being treated in the US under present leadership."
This marks the initial formal statement of its type in over a decade, highlighting the significance of the religious authorities' apprehensions about current immigration policies.
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