FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Reports of increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity across the Central Valley in recent weeks have sparked fear and concern among many local families, according to Bishop Joseph Brennan of the Diocese of Fresno.
Brennan said he has heard stories firsthand from pastors and parishioners affected by recent immigration enforcement activity.
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“Here in the city of Fresno, at least three of our parishioners have been detained. One of whom is a mom and a grandma and been here for years, and we don’t even know where she is,” Brennan said.
He said it has been difficult to hear what families are experiencing and encouraged community members to support one another.
“They have each other and they have us,” Brennan said.
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In a public letter released Wednesday, Brennan addressed what he described as unrest, anxiety and fear within the community.
The letter states: “Our Church teaches that every human person possesses an inherent dignity. This dignity is not granted by governments, economic status, citizenship, or legal documentation. It is given by God.”
Brennan said the Diocese of Fresno has seen ICE agents near churches but not on church grounds. According to the Department of Homeland Security, ICE agents have the authority to enter places of worship and make arrests.
He said he has encouraged pastors to make some changes, including moving religious education programs online.
“We are still going to have the mass schedule. If people do not show up because of fear, I encourage my pastors to take that with absolute pastoral care,” Brennan said.
Brennan also called for immigration reform.
“There has to be some provision for people who have been here for years, who have lived a decent and good life whose only infraction was crossing the border maybe 20 years ago,” he said.
Action News said it has reached out to ICE multiple times regarding recent activity across Central California. The agency said it cannot disclose or discuss its law enforcement operations and added that the Department of Homeland Security enforces the nation’s laws every day.
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