St. Thomas More Racial Equity Initiative Statement on Immigration

Immigration-related tragedies in the U.S. have escalated significantly in 2026, marked by fatalities of both U.S. citizens and migrants. The Racial Equity Initiative condemns unnecessary violence and illegal enforcement tactics, and inhumane conditions and lack of medical care in detention sites. We stand against this type of government response, citing the Catechism of the Catholic Church: 1930 "Respect for the human person entails respect for the rights that flow from his dignity as a creature. These rights are prior to society and must be recognized by it. They are the basis of the moral legitimacy of every authority: by flouting them, or refusing to recognize them in its positive legislation, a society undermines its own moral legitimacy."

The Racial Equity Initiative Commission is aligned with the Bishops of Iowa, who have issued a pastoral reflection called “Pilgrims of Hope,” to help Catholics and all people of good will better understand the teaching of the Catholic Church regarding migration. As Catholics, we respect the life and dignity of each person because we are all made in the image and likeness of God. How does this relate to immigration? It means we are called to welcome the stranger, defend the oppressed, and stand in solidarity with those who are displaced because of tragic circumstances.

Please join the St. Thomas More Racial Equity Initiative in our Call to Action:

• Be aware of what is happening locally and nationally, and connect the information learned to our faith
• Learn about immigration through trainings, podcasts, books, people with that lived experience
• Write/call/email legislators with your concerns about bills, programs, actions
• Get involved with organizations that support immigrants. There are many local organizations that already do great work to support local immigrants.

-The Catholic Worker House - iowacitycatholicworker.org

           -IC Compassion - iccompassion.org

           -Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice - iowammj.org

           -Open Heartland - openheartland.org

This is our faith—the anchor that holds us steady. Everyone has a role to play, and the time to act is now.