A group of over 25 religious organizations has filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) contesting a policy change by the Trump administration that allows immigration enforcement actions at schools and houses of worship. Prior to this change, DHS agents were generally required to obtain special authorization to conduct enforcement actions at designated "sensitive locations."
The plaintiffs, representing a broad spectrum of Christian and Jewish denominations, argue that the policy infringes upon their religious freedom and deters participation in programs in houses of worship.
"Welcoming the stranger, or immigrant, is thus a central precept of their faith practices," the 80-page complaint filed Tuesday declares.
The new policy, outlined in a directive issued by then-Acting DHS Secretary Benjamin Huffman on January 21, revokes previous restrictions on immigration enforcement in these areas. Huffman defended the decision back then, stating it "empowers the brave men and women in CBP and ICE to enforce our immigration laws and catch criminal aliens—including murderers and rapists—who have illegally come into our country. Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America's schools and churches to avoid arrest."
Religious groups argue that the policy has already instilled fear among immigrant congregants, discouraging attendance at worship services and participation in community programs such as food banks, shelters, and meal services. "We cannot worship freely if some of us are living in fear," said Bishop Sean Rowe, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church, to Telemundo. He emphasized that the lawsuit seeks to uphold the ability of faith communities to practice their religion without intimidation.
The legal challenge builds upon arguments put forth by a similar lawsuit filed by Quaker congregations two weeks ago in Maryland, contesting the same policy shift. "President Trump swore an oath to defend the Constitution and yet today religious institutions that have existed since the 1600s in our country are having to go to court to challenge what is a violation of every individual's Constitutional right to worship and associate freely," said Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward, organization representing the Quaker groups, through a statement.
The Quaker lawsuit also argues that the policy undermines fundamental tenets of their faith, particularly communal worship as the presence of immigration enforcement near meetinghouses disrupts this environment and instills fear among immigrant attendees, leading some congregations to cancel worship services entirely.
Although the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has not joined the lawsuit, it has voiced criticism of the administration's immigration policies. Pope Francis recently condemned mass deportations, warning that forcibly removing individuals based solely on immigration status "deprives them of their inherent dignity."
While faith leaders opposing the policy argue that churches have long been considered places of sanctuary for vulnerable populations, some conservative religious and legal groups support the administration's stance.
Originally published on Latin Times
