Washington D.C., Jun 24, 2019 / 10:12 am
On Saturday US President Donald Trump announced he would delay immigration raids meant to begin that weekend, and the US bishops stated their opposition to the planned deportations.
"We recognize the right of nations to control their borders in a just and proportionate manner. However, broad enforcement actions instigate panic in our communities and will not serve as an effective deterrent to irregular migration," Bishop Joe Vásquez of Austin said June 22.
"Instead, we should focus on the root causes in Central America that have compelled so many to leave their homes in search of safety and reform our immigration system with a view toward justice and the common good," said the bishop, who chairs the US bishops' migration committee.
He added: "We stand ready to work with the Administration and Congress to achieve those objectives."