Catholic Charities of Milwaukee released a video encouraging illegal migrants to refuse compliance with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials. The video, narrated by Barb Graham, an attorney for the organization, advises undocumented individuals on their “rights” when confronted by ICE. Critics argue the guidance misrepresents the legal obligations of migrants and contradicts both U.S. immigration law and Catholic teachings.
Graham states that all individuals, including those undocumented, have certain constitutional rights. She advises migrants not to panic, run away, or provide information to ICE agents without legal representation. However, federal law grants ICE broad authority to arrest and detain individuals subject to removal. ICE does not require judicial warrants for civil immigration violations, a power outlined in Sections 236 and 287 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
While Catholic Charities frames its guidance as support for vulnerable populations, the Catechism of the Catholic Church offers a different perspective. Section 2241 acknowledges a government’s right and duty to regulate immigration to protect its citizens and maintain social order. It also obligates migrants to respect the laws and heritage of the host country, a point absent from the video’s message.
The video’s release has intensified debates within the Catholic community. A majority of U.S. Catholics express skepticism about the Church’s stance on immigration. A 2023 poll by Georgetown University’s Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) found that 43% of Catholics favor reducing migration levels, while only 23% support increasing them.
Critics argue that videos like this undermine legal processes and foster distrust in law enforcement. Supporters claim they empower marginalized groups. The controversy highlights tensions between immigration advocacy and adherence to both U.S. law and Catholic principles.
The video has drawn sharp criticism from conservatives and legal experts who argue it encourages lawbreaking and undermines public trust in immigration enforcement. Critics also highlight the inconsistency between Catholic Charities’ actions and Catholic doctrine. Meanwhile, immigration advocacy groups have praised the video for addressing the fears of undocumented migrants. The issue has further fueled political debates over immigration policy, with calls for stricter accountability for organizations providing guidance perceived as contradictory to U.S. law.
