Indianapolis Archbishop writes letter in support of migrants, immigrant families

Following President Donald Trump’s executive orders ordering mass deportations, the leader of the Catholic Church in Indiana has shared support for migrants and refugees while calling for immigration reform.

In a letter written January 25, Thompson called on local Catholics to advocate for the migrant community as Governor Mike Bruan directed state agencies to assist federal efforts on immigration enforcement.

“These migrants and refugees are often beloved members of our communities, parishes, and schools who inspire by their faithful witness and devotion to their faith, commitment to their families and fruitful participation in the civic life of their communities,” Archbishop of Indianapolis Charles C. Thompson said.

The letter comes as other archdioceses across the country, including Detroit and Arlington, have sent out similar statements.

The Archdiocese of Indianapolis consists of 125 parishes and 68 schools throughout central and southern Indiana.

Thompson added that any immigration reform should not protect serious offenders that have harmed others but there should be “reasonable pathways to citizenship for long-time residents with an emphasis on family unity.”

“We will continue to advocate for the just and dignified treatment of migrants as well as for national immigration reform that includes targeted, proportionate, and humane enforcement,” Thompson wrote.

Thompson referenced Jesus, Mary and Joseph as refugees who fled from violence. He said every person has the right to “proper access to food, water, health care, employment, justice and freedom from oppression.”

“It is our hope that reasonable policies can uplift those who feel trapped by the challenges of navigating our country's immigration system,” Thompson said.

Contact WFYI All Things Considered Newscaster and Reporter Samantha Horton at shorton@wfyi.org.