September 06th, 2017

 
 
 
 
 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                           
September 6, 2017
 
Contact:
Annalise Laumeyer, director of communications                                                                                                              
Phone: 616-551-5629 | 616-307-3474 cell
Email: alaumeyer@dioceseofgrandrapids.org
                                                           
 
The Diocese of Grand Rapids’ Office of Communications relays the following statement from
Bishop David J. Walkowiak in response to the repeal of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:
 
As the President and Vice President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) said in their statement, “The cancellation of the DACA program is reprehensible. It causes unnecessary fear for DACA youth and their families.”
 
“…Our nation has done the opposite of how Scripture calls us to respond. It is a step back from the progress that we need to make as a country. Today’s actions represent a heartbreaking moment in our history that shows the absence of mercy and good will, and a short-sighted vision for the future. DACA youth are woven into the fabric of our country and of our Church, and are, by every social and human measure, American youth.”
 
The Diocese of Grand Rapids renews its call to protect immigrants and refugees who have made a home here in West Michigan and we stand ready to assist in any way possible.
 
I stand firm with my brother bishops in “urging Congress to act and immediately resume work toward a legislative solution.” Please join me in praying for the families affected by the decision to repeal DACA.
 
Read the full statement from the USCCB here.

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