More than two dozen Christian and Jewish organizations, representing millions of Americans, have filed a federal lawsuit challenging an immigration policy introduced by the Trump administration that allows immigration agents greater freedom to make arrests at places of worship.
The lawsuit, submitted in the U.S. District Court in Washington, argues that the new directive instills fears of raids, leading to decreased attendance at worship services and other pivotal community programs. These actions, the lawsuit claims, violate the religious freedom of these groups, particularly their ability to serve migrants, including those who may be in the U.S. illegally.
The Most Rev. Sean Rowe, presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church, emphasized the diversity within their communities, stating, “We cannot worship freely if some of us are living in fear.” He added that joining this legal action aims to ensure the right to gather and practice faith, following the principle of loving one’s neighbor.
This lawsuit builds on a similar one filed earlier by five Quaker congregations, which is currently pending in U.S. District Court in Maryland. The new lawsuit names the Department of Homeland Security and its immigration enforcement agencies as defendants, but a response from the Trump administration has yet to be issued.
According to a recent Department of Justice memorandum, the plaintiffs’ request to halt the new enforcement policy is based on conjecture about potential future harm and therefore does not justify an injunction. The memo also noted that immigration enforcement actions at houses of worship have been tolerated for decades, stating the revised policy simply allows field agents to operate without prior supervisor approval based on their discretion.
The ongoing lawsuit highlights a broader coalition of groups representing a significant demographic, including over 1 million members of Reform Judaism and approximately 1.5 million Episcopalians across the country. Other parties involved include the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and several other Christian denominations and organizations.
Legal experts note the substantial scope of this lawsuit might compel a response from the administration. Traditionally, immigration agents required judicial warrants to conduct operations in sensitive locations like churches, but the new guidelines permit more unrestricted access.
The lawsuit is fueled by growing concerns among community leaders about the effect of immigration policies on their outreach efforts. Churches and synagogues often run essential services such as food banks and shelters for undocumented individuals who may now be too afraid to seek help.
The Latino Christian National Network, one of the plaintiffs, reports witnessing a climate of fear within their communities, where individuals avoid activities such as grocery shopping or attending church services due to concerns over deportation.
While the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops did not join the lawsuit, it has publicly criticized the immigration approach taken by the Trump administration. Recent statements from prominent leaders, including Pope Francis, have opposed strong deportation measures, asserting that such actions undermine human dignity.
Opinions on the matter diverge, with some conservative faith leaders supporting the enforcement policy on the grounds that places of worship should not serve as havens for illegal activities. In contrast, some experts argue the significance of maintaining houses of worship as safe spaces for vulnerable populations should not be overlooked.
As this legal battle unfolds, its implications for religious freedom and immigration policies will continue to attract nationwide attention.
