USCCB Migration Chairman Expresses Concern About Direction and Tone of National Immigration Debate

The USCCB Office of Media Relations reported a statement from Bishop Gerald R. Barnes of San Bernardino, California, chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Migration.

“The immigration reform debate, while provoking informed analysis and thoughtful discussion, also has generated harsh rhetoric against migrants in this country, particularly those without legal status,” said Bishop Barnes. “Fanned by talk radio and anti-immigrant organizations, this rhetoric has inflamed fears and misunderstanding among some portions of the American public, leading to a polarized and vitriolic atmosphere.”

Facts and arguments might raise the tone more than accusations against unnamed persons and organizations for unspecified statements.