On almost a daily basis, we are confronted with stories and commentaries about an issue that has become one of the primary concerns in our day. It is the question of immigration.
Our national political parties have embraced very different policies related to the interpretation and enforcement of immigration laws. On both sides, proponents of the differing policies also utilize harsh rhetoric that often creates suspicion toward immigrants and the legitimate work of law enforcement. This confusion impedes calmly working with others in search of necessary and lasting solutions that truly address human rights and the needs inherent in the question of migration. The reality is that our immigration policy has been broken for decades.
Because there are constant reports about upcoming action by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Illinois, we need to seek the guidance of our faith. As Catholics, we know that the long tradition of the Church’s engagement in the joys and sorrows relating to the movements of peoples means that we have much to offer. And above all, our faith compels us to respect the dignity of every human person.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church summarizes Catholic teaching by saying, “The more prosperous nations are obliged, to the extent they are able, to welcome the foreigner in search of the security and the means of livelihood which he cannot find in his country of origin.” (N. 2241).
This nuanced statement highlights that the goods of the earth are to be at the service of all. Simply put, the greater the urgency for the goods of the earth related to respect for human life and for family, the greater the obligation to respond generously. For that reason, there is a particular obligation to assist refugees fleeing war, persecution and natural catastrophes, and those afflicted by crushing poverty.
But that same paragraph in the Catechism of the Catholic Church continues, saying, “Political authorities, for the sake of the common good for which they are responsible, may make the exercise of the right to immigrate subject to various juridical conditions, especially with regard to the immigrant’ duties toward their country of adoption.” In other words, along with the obligation of a generous response to great need, countries have a right to oversee the conditions of migration and to secure their borders.
The Catholic bishops of the United States have also stated, “Safeguarding American communities and upholding the rule of law are laudable goals. … Whether along an international border or in the interior of the country, enforcement measures should focus on those who present genuine risks and dangers to society, particularly efforts to reduce gang activity, stem the flow of drugs, and end human trafficking.” As Cardinal Cupich of Chicago has also noted, “We support the legitimate efforts of law enforcement to protect the safety and security of our communities —criminality cannot be countenanced when committed by immigrants or longtime citizens.”
Given our broken immigration system, the reality is that there are many among us who have lived for years without documentation, but have contributed to our country by their work, their faith and their families. They have strengthened our social fabric and our economy. Their human dignity and family unity need to be respected.
Any enforcement efforts should be directed especially to removing criminal elements and those convicted of violent crimes. Indiscriminate and mass deportations are not a response of faith and love nuanced to the challenges of our day. Family unity should be protected wherever possible.
We are not simply faced with a choice between open borders and a harsh enforcement of laws that for too often have long gone unenforced. Instead, there are means of addressing the question of immigration which are rooted in love, solidarity, clarity and justice for all. In the face of the conflict and division fostered by our politics, these are the means pointed out for us by our Catholic faith.
