Cardinal Tobin and Archbishop Hebda call for comprehensive immigration reform in the U.S.
Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, highlighted on Mar. 26 a renewed call for comprehensive immigration reform in the United States, echoing an urgent appeal by Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. The statements come after recent unrest in Minnesota and ongoing national debates about immigration policy.
The issue is significant as church leaders see the human cost on all sides of the debate and emphasize that unresolved immigration policies lead to uncertainty and fear among millions. The Catholic Church has long advocated for reforms that uphold both border security and the dignity of migrants.
Hebda said, “What’s required is a comprehensive, long-term solution that reflects reality rather than ideology.” He also noted past legislative efforts: “We had a chance in 2013, when a bipartisan bill passed the Senate… The House never took it up.” Both bishops warn that continued inaction only intensifies divisions. Tobin stated his support for these principles: “On behalf of all the people served by the Catholic Church here in northern New Jersey and beyond, I want to express my solidarity and wholehearted support for the principles articulated by our Holy Father Pope Leo and by my brother bishop Bernard Hebda in support of human dignity and comprehensive immigration reform.”
Pope Leo XIV also addressed migration issues earlier this year: “In its international relations and actions, the Holy See consistently takes a stand in defense of the inalienable dignity of every person… Not all migrants move by choice, but many are forced to flee because of violence, persecution, conflict and even the effects of climate change…” He called on states not to use criminality or trafficking as reasons to undermine migrant rights.
The Archdiocese of Newark has engaged extensively in social outreach across northern New Jersey through community events according to its official website. It aims to serve as witnesses of Christ through pastoral care according to its official website across counties including Bergen, Essex, Hudson, and Union according to its official website. The archdiocese participates globally with initiatives such as World Mission Sunday collections according to its official website, while offering parish support services including faith formation according to its official website.
As national discussions continue without resolution, both Cardinal Tobin and Archbishop Hebda urge lawmakers toward action rooted not just in policy but compassion: “If we continue to delay,” Hebda said,“the debate will only grow more bitter and solutions more elusive. The moment to act is now.”
