The Trump Administration's recent decision to rescind guidance on "protected areas" in immigration enforcement has sparked reactions from various religious and social service organizations. A statement was issued emphasizing the commitment of Catholic health care, Catholic Charities agencies, and other Church ministries to support individuals regardless of their citizenship or immigration status.

"Catholic health care, Catholic Charities agencies, and the Church’s other social service ministries work daily to feed, house, heal, educate, and meet people’s needs in communities across our nation," reads the statement. The organizations uphold the belief that every person is born with inherent dignity that reflects the image of God. They stress that this dignity should not be dependent on one's legal status.

The statement further acknowledges the need for fair immigration enforcement while advocating for it to be carried out in a manner that is "targeted, proportional, and humane." It warns against non-emergency enforcement actions in sensitive settings such as schools and places of worship where people receive essential services. Such actions are seen as detrimental to community trust and contrary to the common good.

"With the mere rescission of the protected areas guidance," it states, "we are already witnessing reticence among immigrants to engage in daily life." The fear generated by potential enforcement actions in these spaces is causing reluctance among immigrants to send children to school or attend religious services. The statement concludes by asserting that turning places meant for care into environments of fear will not enhance community safety.