Los Angeles: In a strongly worded appeal, Archbishop José H. Gómez of Los Angeles has spoken out against the United States government’s increasing reliance on mass deportations, calling instead for a measured and humane approach to immigration enforcement. Writing in Angelus News, the archbishop emphasized the importance of evaluating each immigration case individually, rather than resorting to broad enforcement strategies that he believes are sowing fear and division.
An immigrant from Mexico and a naturalized American citizen, Gómez called for a “new national conversation” on immigration one that balances national security with moral responsibility and human dignity. He expressed deep concern over reports of federal agents detaining individuals in public spaces without clear legal documentation, an approach he says has led to widespread fear within immigrant communities.
“People are disappearing from daily life,” Gómez wrote. “Church pews are emptier, parks are deserted, and families are afraid to open their doors.”
While he acknowledged that past administrations may have lacked strong border enforcement, Gómez criticized the current approach as overly aggressive and lacking a coherent immigration policy beyond mass deportations. He argued that the United States, as a nation rooted in justice and compassion, must do better.
Gómez supported deportation in cases involving violent criminals or national security threats, and welcomed stronger border controls. However, he urged lawmakers to pursue deeper reforms to the legal immigration system, including provisions for family unification, protections for refugees, and a path to legal status for longtime undocumented residents—many of whom have lived in the U.S. for more than a decade and contribute significantly to key sectors of the economy.
“The vast majority of these individuals are not criminals,” he wrote. “They are neighbors, workers, and worshippers integral to the fabric of our communities.”
The archbishop’s comments come as immigration enforcement actions intensify in Los Angeles, triggering street protests and community anxiety. More than 40 arrests were made earlier this month, prompting fears of wider crackdowns. Federal officials, however, maintain that the raids are targeted operations focused on individuals with criminal records or labor law violations.
Despite rebuttals from policy advocates and former immigration judges who support the administration’s strategy, Gómez remains steadfast in his appeal: justice must be balanced with mercy, and the human cost of sweeping deportations cannot be ignored.
His message adds a powerful moral voice to the national immigration debate, urging Americans to see beyond legal status and recognize the humanity of those who live, work, and worship among them.