Bishop Robert Vasa, Diocese of Baker (Oregon) recently wrote the following about the Arizona immigration law:
"I do find...that thinking about real, identifiable people, concrete human persons and human families, makes it much easier to see that those who cross our borders or remain here illegally are not necessarily evil or wicked men or women but simply people with human aspirations and longings and dignity. Crossing a border illegally does not eliminate that person's right to be treated as a brother or sister. Remaining in this country illegally does not eliminate that person's human dignity."
I wholeheartedly agree. But, the Arizona immigration law does not dehumanize anybody. The new Arizona law states that "[t]he provisions of this act are intended to work together to discourage and deter the unlawful entry and presence of aliens and economic activity by persons unlawfully present in the United States."
I'm not an immigrant. I'm not an immigration lawyer. I do not have any family members or friends who have gone through the immigration process. But, I am concerned with the quick assessments of the Arizona law that seemingly have come without much thought and analysis. For the first time, I find myself confused and in disagreement with several bishops. I cheered them on throughout the whole healthcare debate, standing by them when other catholic organizations did not. With all due respect to Catholic bishops who have spoken out, you are running the risk of "moralizing" instead of thoughtful catechesis.
