Catholic leaders denounce U.S. immigration policies as unjust at El Paso rally

A high-level conference on migration policy took place in El Paso, Texas, on March 24, drawing prominent Catholic leaders. Cardinal Robert McElroy, the newly appointed Archbishop of Washington, condemned recent U.S. immigration decisions as unjust. His remarks came alongside a public rally and prayer vigil in support of migrants.

The event was organised by Jesuit Refugee Service/USA and the Center for Migration Studies of New York. It focused on U.S. immigration policy through the lens of Catholic social teaching. Among the key issues discussed was the ongoing legal dispute over the U.S. government’s decision to end a refugee resettlement contract with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Cardinal McElroy criticised the suspension of USAID funding for humanitarian aid, calling it 'moral theft' and a violation of Catholic principles. He also spoke out against proposals for mass deportations, arguing that such measures spread fear among undocumented families. While he recognised a nation’s right to control its borders, he insisted that justice and mercy must guide enforcement. Cardinal Fabio Baggio, from the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, joined the rally and march. He tied the disregard for migrants’ dignity to a broader 'throwaway culture' that also harms the unborn and elderly. In his address, he presented two opposing visions for U.S. policy: one prioritising secure borders with humane treatment and asylum access, the other pursuing a harsh crackdown on undocumented individuals. The conference coincided with a public demonstration, where participants gathered for a prayer vigil in solidarity with migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border.

The gathering highlighted deep concerns over current U.S. immigration practices. Cardinal McElroy’s criticism of funding cuts and deportation plans underscored the Church’s stance on balancing border security with compassion. The event also reinforced calls for policies that respect human dignity in line with Catholic teaching.