Hispanic theologians oppose making illegal immigrants criminals

Published: 2006-06-12

SAN ANTONIO (CNS) -- The Academy of Catholic Hispanic Theologians of the United States has asked for comprehensive immigration reform legislation that does not make illegal immigrants and church workers who help them criminals. "Failing to stand for just and comprehensive immigration reform impoverishes us all," said the academy's June 7 statement. The academy supported the U.S. bishops' position that the current immigration system is flawed and perpetuates the suffering of immigrants. "We oppose the criminalization of undocumented immigrants and of those who serve them, the construction of border walls, the militarization of the border and the conditions that result in the deaths of so many immigrants," it said. "We commit ourselves to dispel falsehoods about immigration, to protect civil rights, to promote justice, and to make known the gifts, talents and contributions of immigrants to our society," said the five-paragraph statement.

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