Mexican archdiocese criticizes Arizona law limiting migrant benefits

Published: 2005-01-19

MEXICO CITY (CNS) -- The Archdiocese of Mexico City has joined the nation's politicians in criticizing a new Arizona law that restricts illegal migrants' access to some public services. "We have already said many times that (illegal migrants) are not criminals," Mexico City Cardinal Norberto Rivera Carrera told reporters following Mass Jan. 16. "They merely leave their ... country in search of work and ... governments (should) respect their human rights." An editorial in the Mexico City Archdiocese's weekly newsletter was more blunt in its criticism, saying the Arizona law "was another example of political arrogance and social selfishness that has characterized some governments in the United States." Cardinal Rivera expressed concern that the new law could be adopted in other states. "Fortunately, this is an isolated case up until now," he said. In November, Arizona voters approved Proposition 200, which denies some public welfare benefits to illegal migrants. The law took effect Dec. 22. Human rights groups on both sides of the border have criticized the measure as racist, though the law's supporters say it will save taxpayers money and strengthen law enforcement. An estimated 3 million to 5 million Mexicans live and work illegally in the United States, and Mexican officials estimate some 300,000 are in Arizona.

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