CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — In response to President Donald Trump’s tough stance on immigration, North Carolina’s Catholic bishops are calling for a compassionate approach to immigration reform. The bishops’ statement follows a wave of protests across the country and comes amid rising concerns over the treatment of migrants in the U.S.
The Need for Compassionate Immigration Reform
As President Trump pushes forward with aggressive immigration policies, including mass deportations, the Catholic leaders are emphasizing the moral aspect of the issue. They argue that while Americans can respect borders and laws, it is also crucial to show compassion for individuals who have come to the U.S. seeking a better life.
Trump’s rhetoric, which includes statements about “hunting down and arresting hundreds of illegal aliens,” has sparked anxiety within immigrant communities. Autumn Weil, Executive Director of International House in Charlotte, points out that even legal immigrants—those with permanent green cards or naturalized status—are expressing fear about their futures.
“We’re seeing some of the most anxious individuals are legal immigrants who fear their statuses could be jeopardized,” Weil says.
A Call for Dignity and Human Rights in Immigration Reform
In the midst of deportation actions and ongoing pro-immigration protests, bishops in both Charlotte and Raleigh are urging for an approach to immigration reform that focuses on compassion. Their joint statement emphasizes the importance of recognizing immigrants as part of “God’s human family,” deserving of dignity and respect.
“As Catholics, we advocate for the recognition that immigrants, as members of God’s human family, are deserving of and must be granted the appropriate dignity as our brothers and sisters in the Lord. Jesus Himself was a refugee and taught us to welcome the stranger,” the bishops stated.
While church leaders will not advise anyone to break the law, they continue to educate immigrants about their legal rights, ensuring they know where to turn for support.
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