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Catholic immigration advocates gathered at The Catholic University of America to address misconceptions about their work and explore new ways to engage with skeptics, including former Trump administration officials. The event, titled "Understanding Migration from a Catholic Perspective," aimed to examine both current and historical narratives surrounding U.S. immigration.
Bishop Mark J. Seitz of El Paso, Texas, emphasized the importance of accurate narratives in his keynote address: “If the narrative is wrong, the actions that are based upon that narrative will be wrong.” As chair of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Migration, Bishop Seitz expressed concerns over certain Trump administration policies affecting immigration.
He specifically criticized the rescinding of restrictions on Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents making arrests at sensitive locations and the suspension of a federal refugee resettlement program. He noted ongoing litigation between the USCCB and the federal government over suspended funding for refugee resettlement assistance.
Responding to claims by Vice President JD Vance that the conference profits from its work, Bishop Seitz stated: “All I can really think of when I hear that kind of assertion is ‘Animal Farm.’ Because the truth is just turned upside down.”
Outside audits have shown that the USCCB does not profit from its refugee work but has used church funds to cover expenses unmet by government payments. Bishop Seitz also highlighted concerns over cuts to foreign aid, particularly USAID dismantling efforts: “Migration should be a choice, not a necessity.”
Historian Julia Young discussed past waves of immigration between 1870 and 1910 which significantly changed U.S. demographics. She warned against dismissing economic or cost-of-living concerns tied to immigration as mere nativism.
Peter Skerry from Boston College added perspective during a panel discussion: “I don’t think (calling it) racism is a very helpful response or answer to this kind of question.”
Despite challenges faced by advocates, Bishop Seitz expressed hope for positive change: “I believe that the Lord will not leave us,” suggesting this could lead to a national reawakening.
The conference was hosted by CUA along with USCCB’s Migration and Refugee Services and Jesuit Refugee Service/USA.
Kate Scanlon reported on these developments for OSV News.
