Pope Leo Calls on U.S. Bishops to Address Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
Pope Leo XIV has called on U.S. bishops to address the ongoing immigration crackdown associated with the Trump administration. The call came during an audience with El Paso Bishop Mark Seitz, who presented the pope with letters from immigrant families expressing their fears of deportation.
Significant Meeting with Bishop Seitz
On a recent Wednesday, Bishop Seitz met with Pope Leo at the Vatican. He shared a packet of letters from families “terrorized” by the administration’s immigration measures. Seitz also showed Leo a video depicting migrants’ struggles.
Following the meeting, Seitz remarked that the pope pledged to support the immigrant community and encouraged the U.S. bishops’ conference to speak out on the issue.
Pope’s Insights on Immigration Policies
Pope Leo, a dual citizen of the U.S. and Peru, has remained relatively silent on U.S. politics since his appointment. However, he has recently highlighted contradictions concerning pro-life stances, particularly regarding abortion and immigration.
“Someone who opposes abortion but supports the death penalty isn’t truly pro-life,” Leo stated. He extended this view to treatment of immigrants, questioning how one can advocate for life while supporting harsh immigration policies.
Impact of Immigration Crackdown
The crackdown has ignited fears and disrupted communities across the United States. It has resulted in family separations and heightened anxiety within immigrant communities served by American churches and schools. According to Seitz, the fear induced by these policies has long-lasting effects on individuals and families.
- Legal immigrants and U.S. citizens have also faced detention.
- Immigration agents have employed aggressive tactics, including helicopter deployments in urban areas.
- The crackdown has made families fearful of everyday activities, such as shopping and attending church.
Maria, a legal resident from Guatemala, expressed her despair in a letter to the pope. She emphasized the need for the pope to engage directly with President Trump regarding the treatment of immigrants.
Papal Predecessors and Ongoing Advocacy
Pope Leo continues the advocacy efforts of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who condemned past plans for mass deportations. Francis had noted that forcibly removing individuals solely based on immigration status stripped them of their dignity.
Last weekend, the pope dedicated a mass to migrants, denouncing the “coldness of indifference” faced by vulnerable populations seeking refuge from violence.
Future Engagements
Although previously critical of the Trump administration’s immigration policies, Leo did not comment on current events in Chicago during his recent audience. However, reports suggest the pope may consider visiting the U.S. next year for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Invitations have already been extended by President Trump.
As global attention remains focused on immigration issues, Pope Leo XIV’s actions demonstrate the Catholic Church’s commitment to advocating for the dignity and rights of migrants.
