The number of new migrant arrivals at the US border unexpectedly dropped in the days immediately following the expiration of Title 42.
Anti-immigrant voices had predicted that last week’s termination of Title 42, a Covid-related public health measure used to quickly deport undocumented migrants, would result in massive numbers of migrants attempting to cross the US border. The federal government even sent soldiers to the border to assist in managing the rush.
That the expected new arrivals did not materialise has not altered the determination of Catholic leaders working for more humane immigration policies.
“We remain committed to supporting the efforts ongoing within our dioceses and beyond to promote the God-given dignity of every person, including those who have recently arrived in our communities,” read a statement from Catholic bishops whose dioceses run along the border.
“Further, as a Church committed to the common good, we always cooperate in the administration of humanitarian aid with local, state, and federal officials, frequently in partnership with faith communities and like-minded secular organisations.”
The Bishop of El Paso, Texas, Mark Seitz, who also chairs the migration committee of the US bishops’ conference, urged his flock to welcome the newcomers in a video posted on Twitter.
“This is the time El Paso for us to live up to our reputation of welcome and hospitality. We are already in the process of welcoming,” Seitz said.
“Right now our diocesan family is opening four parish-based shelters and with your help we’re about to open another one. All of our parishes and priests are working to support the effort by preparing food, by volunteering at one of our shelters and by praying for the newcomers among us.
“The next several weeks could be challenging, but we are not alone in this. The Lord is at our side.”
In Imperial County, California, Cardinal Robert McElroy, Bishop of San Diego, accompanied Catholic Charities workers bringing water and food to migrants huddled in small camps set up by border patrol.
A Florida judge barred the Biden administration from releasing migrants deemed non-dangerous into the community while their applications for asylum were processed. The administration is appealing the ruling.
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