Pope Francis slams Trump: Pope Francis has criticized the US government for its strict policy on illegal immigration, particularly under Trump. He warned that deporting people solely because of their illegal status violates their basic dignity.
Recently, the US Air Force deported 104 Indian nationals, handcuffed and shackled, back to India. Pope Francis condemned Trump’s tough stance on illegal immigrants, warning that such actions are a breach of human dignity. In a letter to American bishops, the Pope wrote that anyone who cannot think about a person’s dignity will only end with a bad beginning and an even worse end.
The first Latin American Pope in history has always prioritized the care of migrants, urging nations to welcome, protect, promote, and integrate those fleeing from struggles, poverty, and environmental disasters. He also emphasized that governments are expected to act within their capacity to do so.
In his letter, Pope Francis acknowledged that countries have the right to defend themselves and protect their communities from criminals. However, he argued that expelling people who have fled extreme poverty, insecurity, exploitation, persecution, or environmental devastation harms their dignity and leaves them vulnerable and helpless.
Referencing biblical stories about migration, Pope Francis reaffirmed the right of people to seek asylum and safety in other countries. He stated that anyone who calls themselves Christian cannot equate an immigrant’s illegal status with criminality. He wrote, “Anyone who does not consider a person’s dignity starts badly and ends badly.”
Over 8,000 arrests after Trump assumed office
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt recently stated that since Trump took office, more than 8,000 individuals have been arrested in immigration enforcement actions. Some of these individuals have been deported, while others remain in federal jails or are held at the US military base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
Clash between Pope Francis and Trump since 2016
The clash between Trump and Pope Francis over illegal immigration began during the 2016 presidential campaign when the Pope visited the US-Mexico border and said that anyone who builds a wall to keep immigrants out is “not Christian.”
