Miami Archbishop Thomas Wenski is calling on President Donald Trump to temporarily suspend migrant deportations during the Christmas season, saying the move would help prevent family separations and reduce trauma for children.
Speaking Monday at the Archdiocese of Miami’s Pastoral Center, Wenski said many current immigration raids are affecting people without criminal records, despite earlier enforcement efforts targeting dangerous individuals.
In a joint statement, Wenski and other religious leaders said a significant number of migrants detained at the facility known as “Alligator Alcatraz” have no criminal history. They also warned that current immigration policies have created widespread fear, including among immigrants living legally in the United States.
The leaders urged federal authorities to pause apprehensions and raids during the holidays as a gesture of compassion and respect for families.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, more than 500,000 migrants have been expelled from the country this year, while nearly two million others departed voluntarily.