Christain Groups Condemn Treatment of Immigrants

From Ana Maria Patino, Esq.:

“Yesterday a coalition of Christian leaders from across the country declared “the way illegal immigrants are treated is inhumane and at clear odds with Christian values”. The group criticized the hateful language directed against immigrants in the country and throughout all levels of government stating this was contrary to Leviticus 19:18 that tells Christians to “Love thy Neighbor”. The coalition also came out against the rise of ICE raids of work and home of undocumented immigrants because they cause the fragmentation of the family in violation of another well-known Christian tenet. The coalition, Christians for Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CCIR) issued a paper focusing on these three points and citing Biblical verses where the Bible tells Christians to NOT conduct themselves in this manner. The coalition represents a number of religions ranging from Catholicism to Evangelism. (See article from the Orange County Register) CCIR’S paper states:

1. The inhumane treatment of immigrant and hateful anti-immigrant rhetoric is at odds with Leviticus 19:18 which calls for Christians to “Love Thy Neighbor;

2. The paper argues this hateful language is being “…play[ed] out on all levels of government down to the local level;

3. The recent rise in ICE “,,,raids at work and home of undocumented immigrants is un-Christian because it causes fragmentation of families.

While political candidates and other elected officials give into political pressure of people and groups taking positions based on hate, fear and discrimination, it is members of the clergy like this one who are courageous and are the true leaders of our country bringing to the attention the error of our ways. Hilary? Romney? Thompson? Tancredo? Other Presidential candidates? Are you listening?”

KJ