As Christians in the United States of America, we urge our nation to respond to the present worldwide crisis of human migration in a manner that expresses our best moral and spiritual values. This means respecting the sacred dignity of every human being (Gen. 1:27), demonstrating compassion to vulnerable migrants (Deut. 10:19), and upholding the rule of law for the common good (Rom. 13:1-7). We remember that the Lord Jesus was displaced from his birth home due to political persecution (Matt. 2:13-15) and that he taught his disciples to welcome strangers and show compassion to those in need (Matt. 25:34-40; Lk. 10:25-37).

From the founding of the United States, immigrants have been essential to this society’s growth and prosperity. They came to these shores as strangers, drawn by promises this land offers, and they became Americans. Today, nineteen percent of the United States workforce is immigrants.¹ Individuals of foreign heritage uphold the economy of this country by providing food security, housing, health services, and many essential skills that support our prosperous nation. A fair and compassionate system of legal immigration will further strengthen the United States while providing a beacon of hope to people around the world.

We acknowledge that illegal immigration is wrong and that every nation has a right to protect its borders. We also lament the grave evils of human and drug trafficking. It is right for the civil authority to hold violent criminals accountable and oppose these destructive social evils.

We also acknowledge that the vast majority of undocumented immigrants in this nation are upstanding members of our communities, not violent criminals. They came to the United States seeking a better life, and they strengthen our country in many ways. They are our friends and neighbors. Many of them are among the most vulnerable in our midst. A policy of mass deportation would disrupt families, weaken our communities, harm our economy, and cause undue suffering for many innocent people.

Our country deserves an immigration system that offers pathways to full citizenship or permanent legal status for immigrants who have been living and working for many years within our borders. We need a system that provides permanent relief for childhood arrivals, helps families stay together, and welcomes refugees. Our nation should be a place of hope for people fleeing violence and religious persecution. As we look to the future, we must put an end to illegal immigration while opening doors of opportunity for migrants to live and work legally.

It is also important that our immigration enforcement processes be carried out in a just, compassionate, and humane way. Respect for due process and the rule of law is essential, as are transparency and accountability. It is never acceptable to use excessive force, detain people in cruel ways, or harm the innocent.

As followers of Jesus and citizens of the United States, we want a just and compassionate legal system that reflects the simple and profound teaching of Jesus: “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matt. 22:39). This love has serious consequences for our lives, our nation, and our most vulnerable neighbors.