The Catholic Bishops of Arizona announced the organization's opposition to Proposition 314, a ballot measure that, if approved, would make it a state crime to cross the southern border anywhere other than a port of entry.
In a video accompanying the announcement, Bishop Edward Weisenburger of Tucson said the proposition carries “unanticipated consequences” for both asylum seekers and American communities.
“The lack of a federal solution to challenges faced by both vulnerable asylum seekers and American communities is sorely needed and long overdue," he said.
Auxiliary Bishop Eduardo Nevares of Phoenix says the proposal will raise alarm among people.
“Although proponents argue that Proposition 314 is about border security, the reality is that its passage will create real fear within Arizona communities that will have harmful consequences," he said.
Bishops also said the federal government needs to do a better job managing the border while also taking into consideration comprehensive immigration reform.
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In a press release this week, city officials say they’re closely monitoring the situation of other cities — where the Trump administration has sent National Guard troops without requests from local or state governments.
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Indigenous peoples across the U.S. have been swept up in the Trump administration’s crackdown on undocumented immigrants and an Arizona tribe is taking steps to safeguard its membership.
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Democratic members of Congress could be back in court this month after they say the Trump administration is again denying them immediate access to immigration detention facilities.
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Republican lawmakers hosting a pro-ICE press conference were driven indoors as they were met with protesters at the state Capitol on Monday morning.
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Last Friday, The Show invited Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Arizona) to stop by the studio and offer his perspective on some of the year’s major storylines thus far.