The White House has turned down a request from Florida's Catholic bishops to temporarily halt immigration operations during the Christmas holidays. This plea, spearheaded by Miami Archbishop Thomas Wenski, called for a "humanitarian pause" to allow migrant families to celebrate Christmas without the fear of detention.
Signed by eight prelates from the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops, the letter was addressed to President Donald Trump and Governor Ron DeSantis, urging them to "take a break" from raids and deportations. Archbishop Wenski highlighted that the current immigration enforcement efforts are targeting not criminals, but hardworking individuals.
He emphasized that a temporary halt would demonstrate basic decency and respect for the humanity of these families. Despite the appeal, the White House responded that immigration operations would proceed as usual, according to Fox News. Presidential spokesperson Abigail Jackson stated that President Trump was elected with the promise to deport illegal immigrants with criminal records and is fulfilling that promise.
At a Miami Shores press conference, Archbishop Wenski reiterated that such a pause could "lower the temperature" across the nation and allow families to gather. "Give them these two weeks to be with their loved ones without fear of arrest or being sent to places like Alligator Alcatraz or Krome," he urged, referencing notorious Florida immigration detention centers.
Wenski, a known advocate for more humane treatment of migrants, also criticized the current raids for affecting even those with legal authorization to stay in the U.S. He noted that over half a million immigrants have been deported this year, and an additional two million have left the country voluntarily.
The request from Florida's bishops received moral support from Pope Leo XIV, who recently reminded that while countries have the right to control their borders, they must treat migrants with humanity and dignity. The Pope clarified that the Church does not advocate for open borders but condemns inhumane and degrading treatment of migrants in the U.S.
Last September, Wenski participated in a Georgetown University roundtable, where he criticized Trump's immigration policy for dividing families, spreading fear, and disrupting the lives of religious communities. He reaffirmed that while law enforcement is always necessary, it must be reasonable and compassionate.
Understanding the U.S. Immigration Policy and Its Impact
Why did the Florida bishops request a pause in immigration operations?
The bishops requested a pause to allow migrant families to celebrate Christmas without fear of detention, emphasizing a need for humanitarian consideration.
What was the White House's response to the request?
The White House declined the request, stating that immigration operations would continue as normal, aligning with President Trump's commitment to deport illegal immigrants with criminal backgrounds.
Who supported the bishops' request?
The request was morally supported by Pope Leo XIV, who emphasized the importance of treating migrants with dignity, while maintaining that borders should be controlled.