Story perspectives

Bishops Demand Immigration Reform Ahead of Trump’s Address

2/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

On February 24, 2026, U.S. bishops from border states urged immigration enforcement reforms ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump's State of the Union address.
They urged protection of schools and churches from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions and protection for asylum seekers and law-abiding undocumented immigrants.
They condemned mass deportation tactics and noted polls showing disapproval of President Donald Trump's immigration policies after incidents with federal agents and community protests.

History

Historical Context

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on October 3, abolished national origin quotas, significantly altering U.S. immigration patterns. By the 1970s, over 300,000 immigrants from Latin America entered annually. This shift has led to ongoing debates about immigration reform, as highlighted by recent calls from bishops amid tensions surrounding policies enacted during President Trump's administration.

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Story summary

On February 24, 2026, U.S. bishops from border states urged immigration enforcement reforms ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump's State of the Union address.
They urged protection of schools and churches from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions and protection for asylum seekers and law-abiding undocumented immigrants.
They condemned mass deportation tactics and noted polls showing disapproval of President Donald Trump's immigration policies after incidents with federal agents and community protests.

1 / 2