Pope Leo XIV, in a recent public declaration, has criticized the immigration policies of the Trump administration, particularly taking issue with the treatment of migrants detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The pontiff's comments were made during an appearance on Tuesday, where he called for a "deep reflection" on the United States' approach to migrants, especially those held at the Broadview ICE facility near Chicago.
The pope's remarks followed reports that religious figures, including priests and nuns, had been prevented from bringing the Eucharist to detainees at the facility. Emphasizing the spiritual needs of these individuals, many of whom have been separated from their families and face uncertain futures, Pope Leo urged federal authorities to allow pastoral workers access to the detainees.
Referencing Scripture in his address, Pope Leo XIV questioned the administration's reception of foreigners, highlighting the moral imperative to welcome them. He stressed that many affected by current policies have been established residents of the United States for years without causing issues.
The Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership has echoed the pope's sentiments, expressing gratitude for his defense of detained migrants' rights to spiritual care and for giving them the strength to continue advocating for access to the Broadview facility.
In defense of the policy, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, Tricia McLaughlin, clarified that while religious organizations are welcome to provide services at ICE detention facilities, the Broadview site's classification as a field office and ongoing safety concerns prevent accommodating such requests at this time.
Pope Leo XIV's critique has been described by Catholic historian Austen Ivereigh as his "strongest criticism" of President Trump since his papacy began in May. The comments have the potential to exert pressure on the Trump administration, particularly among American Catholics, according to Ivereigh.
Though generally avoiding political conflict, Pope Leo previously termed the migrant crackdown as "inhuman" and voiced opposition to military action near Venezuela, warning against violence and suggesting U.S. naval deployments were exacerbating tensions.
Experts note that Pope Leo XIV appears to be maintaining the social justice focus of his predecessor, Pope Francis, with similar teachings and priorities despite a different style.
In a tweet from Christopher Hale, it was highlighted that Pope Leo XIV has called on President Trump and Vice President Vance to respect the dignity and religious liberty of migrants in the United States, emphasizing the necessity for authorities to allow pastoral workers access to the detained.
