Archbishop Lori joins local clergy decrying violence connected to immigration enforcement

Archbishop William E. Lori joined the growing chorus of prelates denouncing violence in the United States connected to immigration enforcement.

Twice in the span of four days, the Baltimore archbishop was part of statements issued decrying two deaths in Minneapolis and ongoing political unrest in the nation over enforcement tactics used by the Department of Homeland Security.

On Jan. 27, Archbishop Lori issued a statement online calling for peace. 

“This is a moment for us, as believers and citizens, to pause – to pray, to reflect and to work for a better day,” Archbishop Lori wrote after the shooting death of nurse Alex Pretti by two U.S. immigration agents Jan. 24.

Pretti’s death followed the shooting by immigration officers of Renee Nicole Good less than a month earlier. Both Pretti and Good were reportedly protesting ramped-up enforcement efforts in the Minneapolis area.

Archbishop Lori joined five other Baltimore-area clergy Jan. 31 to add their voices to those speaking out against the unrest in the nation.

He said it was vital for interfaith leaders to speak unitedly on the important issue

“It is important that faith leaders speak with one voice in bearing witness to human dignity, in working for the common good, and in helping create a society of justice and compassion. This statement is an invitation to pray, reflect, and work for a better day,” Archbishop Lori said.

“Speaking with One Voice” was released to area media outlets ahead of a planned protest of Trump administration immigration policies in downtown Baltimore. The protest attracted a crowd of several hundred on a frigid winter night and the following day.

Archbishop Lori joined the Rev. LaTrelle Miller Easterling, bishop of Baltimore-Washington and Peninsula-Delaware Area for the United Methodist Church; the Rev. William J. Gohl Jr., bishop of the Delaware-Maryland Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; the Rev. Freeman L. Palmer, conference minister for the Central Atlantic Conference, United Church of Christ; the Right Rev. Carrie Schofield-Broadbent, XV bishop Diocese of Maryland, the Episcopal Church; and the Rev. Dr. Jacqueline E. Taylor, general presbyter, Presbytery of Baltimore, Presbyterian Church USA.

The prelates called for building a “network of care” for immigrants and strengthen bonds in communities.

The full text of the document follows:

Speaking with One Voice

As faith leaders representing diverse traditions across Maryland, we are deeply troubled by the rising levels of violence and fear connected to immigration enforcement throughout the country. Recent events have underscored the profound human cost of these actions, including the loss of life and the escalation of confrontations between communities, law enforcement, and federal authorities. 

Here in Maryland, we are especially concerned for our immigrant brothers and sisters who have endured intimidation, detention, and the separation of families. The growing presence of immigration enforcement in schools, hospitals, and places of worship has created an atmosphere of anxiety that undermines the trust essential to healthy communities. Across the nation, we have witnessed repeated accounts of individuals being treated in ways that disregard their inherent dignity. At the same time, public discourse has been clouded by misinformation that seeks to justify or minimize these harms and damages the reputation of individuals. 

Our various faith traditions teach that every person possesses an inviolable worth. We share a common conviction that the vulnerable must be protected, that families must be supported, and that truth and compassion must guide public action. From this shared moral foundation, we cannot accept narratives that dismiss these incidents as isolated or insignificant. The pattern of fear and instability affecting immigrant communities demands our collective attention and response. We are also mindful of rhetoric that threatens to use force against our cities or communities. Such language only deepens division and erodes the trust necessary for public safety and civic cooperation. As leaders of many faiths, we stand with all who seek a just and peaceful society. We urge federal authorities to conduct their duties with restraint, respect, and a commitment to the dignity of every individual. 

While we understand that the government has the responsibility to enforce laws and to secure the borders, there is also an urgent need for comprehensive immigration reform that ensures the safety of all, respects those who come or have come to the United States seeking a better life for themselves and their families, keeps families together, and offers a path to citizenship. 

We call upon all people of goodwill to strengthen the bonds of community: reach out to your neighbors, learn who may need support, and build networks of care that ensure no one faces fear or uncertainty alone. Our congregations and communities remain committed to working together to affirm that Maryland is strongest when we uphold the dignity, safety, and belonging of every person who calls this state home.

Email Gerry Jackson at gjackson@CatholicReview.org

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